- Government appoints four additional solar PV preferred bidders representing R16 billion in new investment.
- Total capacity procured under Bid Window 7 rises to 3 940 MW across 18 solar projects.
- New projects expected to reach the grid within 24 months, supporting energy security and economic growth.
South Africa has taken another step forward in expanding its renewable energy capacity, with Electricity and Energy Minister Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa announcing the appointment of additional preferred bidders to deliver 890 MW of solar photovoltaic capacity under the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP) Bid Window 7.
Three of the four projects have been awarded to Red Rocket South Africa. These include the Rondebosch Solar Park, Springhaas Solar Facility 1 and Springhaas Solar Facility 6, all located in the Free State. The fourth project, the Corona Solar PV project, will be developed by Engie in the North West.
The newly announced projects increase the total capacity procured under Bid Window 7 to 3 940 MW, to be delivered through 18 solar PV independent power producer projects across several provinces. The additional capacity represents an investment injection of R16 billion into the local economy.
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Speaking at a media briefing in Pretoria, Ramokgopa said the new appointments form part of government’s broader effort to stabilise electricity supply while stimulating economic growth and job creation. He confirmed that all preferred bidders have committed to 49 percent South African equity participation, with an average Black Economic Empowerment participation of 40 percent. These commitments will be formalised through implementation agreements between the Department of Electricity and Energy and the project companies.
The Minister said Bid Window 7 attracted strong market interest, with 48 bidders submitting offers totalling 10.2 gigawatts, more than double the capacity initially requested. Government had originally prepared to appoint preferred bidders for approximately 1 760 MW of solar PV, close to the 1 800 MW target.
He explained that insufficient wind energy bids in the bid window created an opportunity to reallocate capacity to solar PV. Following further engagement on pricing and project terms, four additional projects were taken forward, resulting in the final 890 MW announcement.
The new solar projects are expected to be connected to the grid within the next 24 months, reinforcing government’s commitment to ensuring adequate generation capacity as economic activity increases.
With this latest announcement, Bid Window 7 will deliver solar PV projects across Limpopo, the Free State, North West and Mpumalanga. Ramokgopa reiterated that South Africa remains an attractive destination for renewable energy investment, positioning energy as a key enabler of economic recovery, industrial development and long-term energy security.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
Solis has an extensive distribution network across Africa. For enquiries on the African continent contact Solis Sales: sales@ginlong.com
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