- Mulilo has officially reached Financial Close on Ukuqala Solar Project, located near De Aar in the Northern Cape
The project is aptly named, “Ukuqala” meaning “the first” or “the beginning”. This is proudly the first project that Mulilo delivers under their integrated business model. Their multi-disciplinary team will manage construction and deliver asset management and operations & maintenance services. Ukuqala Solar is also the first renewable energy project to power Air Product’s Air Separation Units across South Africa, with electricity delivered via wheeling to various locations.
The project will be one of four other Mulilo projects connected to the Kestrel Main Transmission Substation, currently under construction. Located strategically near other Mulilo facilities, the Ukuqala Solar Plant boasts a 105 MWDC installed capacity with a 75 MWAC maximum output, due to an optimised design featuring a high DC/AC ratio. This design enables the plant to reach its maximum output earlier in the day and sustain it for longer, contributing approximately 248 GWh of power annually.
This project was made possible with the support of Nedbank, SBSA and ABSA, all who provided debt financing for Ukuqala. Additionally, the unwavering commitment of Peppertree Capital, ENS, ABL, Bowmans, and Arup in their various capacities as advisors was instrumental in achieving Financial Close on this project.
In March 2023, Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners bought Mulilo and its 25GW pipeline. Read more
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
2 Comments
Any updates on what happened with their previous issues with Artsolar* panels delaminating at Mulilo Sonnedix Prieska? (Now BTE / Mulilo / Prieska)
*Allegedly.
After a court case, it is believed the faulty panels were replaced and it is unknown whether they were dumped or recycled. Sonnedex then sold its share in the project:https://www.greenbuildingafrica.co.za/sonnedix-sells-troubled-75mw-mulilo-sonnedix-prieska-solar-project-in-south-africa/