China to Build 100MW Solar Plant in South Africa

February 18, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 2 minutes

Key Figures & Findings:
A 100MW solar power project is under development in South Africa’s Limpopo Province, spearheaded by CGN Africa Energy, the China-Africa Development Fund, and Samancor Chrome, one of the region’s largest minerals-processing companies. The project, designed to provide renewable energy to Samancor Chrome’s Tubatse ferrochrome smelter, will be developed in two phases, with 60MW set for completion first before expanding to full capacity. The initiative marks the largest privately owned renewable energy project in South Africa with a power purchase agreement (PPA) secured from Eskom, South Africa’s national utility.

Statistics & Insights:
Once fully operational, the solar plant will generate enough power for 80,000 South African homes. Since 85% of South Africa’s electricity currently comes from coal, this project aligns with the country’s Just Energy Transition Partnership, which aims to reduce coal reliance and phase out seven coal-fired power stations by 2032.

Future Implications:
This project could significantly reduce Samancor’s energy costs while lowering carbon emissions. With regulatory support and nearly 4GW of new capacity expected from the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Programme (REIPPP), more private sector investments in renewables may follow.