- A long term power purchase agreement signed with Etana Energy to supply major commercial and industrial customers.
- The projects highlight accelerating private sector participation in South Africa’s power market.
ACCIONA Energía is preparing to begin construction of two new wind farms with a combined capacity of 194 MW in South Africa, marking a significant expansion of privately developed renewable energy generation in the country.
The projects, known as Zen with a capacity of 100 MW and Bergriver at 94 MW, are located between Gouda and Saron in the Western Cape. Together they are expected to generate approximately 580 GWh of renewable electricity annually.
All electricity produced by the wind farms will be purchased by Etana Energy under a 20 year offtake agreement. Etana will supply the power to a diversified portfolio of commercial and industrial customers, including Growthpoint, the V and A Waterfront in Cape Town, Tharisa Minerals, Petra Diamonds and Autocast.
Ownership of the projects is shared between ACCIONA Energía, which holds a 51 percent stake, and a joint venture between H1 Capital and Chariot Limited, which owns the remaining 49 percent. The partners specialise in the development and investment of renewable energy assets across multiple markets.
Financial close was reached on 12 December 2025, with construction scheduled to begin in the coming weeks. Commissioning is planned for mid 2027. ACCIONA Energía will oversee construction, while Nordex will supply the wind turbines and assume responsibility for operations and maintenance once the facilities are completed.
The wind farms are expected to displace around 600,000 tons of CO₂ emissions each year, equivalent to removing more than 225,000 internal combustion engine vehicles from South Africa’s roads. The projects reflect the continued liberalisation of the national power sector, as private off-takers increasingly secure renewable electricity through energy traders, supporting a more competitive and diversified energy supply landscape.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
