South Africa adds 75MW solar capacity

Key Figures & Findings: South Africa has connected 75MW of new solar capacity to its national grid through the Grootspruit plant in the Free State province, developed under Round 5 of the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Program (REIPPPP). A second 75MW project at Graspan in the Northern Cape is under construction and expected online by late 2025. Both facilities were developed with support from Engie Africa and Pele Green Energy, marking progress in diversifying South Africa’s power mix and reducing reliance on coal.

Statistics & Insights: Together, Grootspruit and Graspan aim to reduce South Africa’s carbon emissions by about 100,000 tons of CO₂ annually. 

Future Implications: If delivered on schedule, these solar plants could help stabilize South Africa’s electricity supply by 2025, easing grid strain and supporting long-term energy security. Their success may also strengthen confidence in REIPPPP as a framework for attracting private investment into renewables.

Source: Ecofin Agency

Quick Take: South Africa’s Grootspruit solar plant adds 75MW to the grid, with another 75MW at Graspan due in 2025, cutting emissions and diversifying the country’s power supply.