Sturdee Secures 91 MW Bela Bela Solar

Key Figures & Findings: Sturdee Energy has reached financial close on the 91.2 MW Bela Bela Solar Park in Limpopo Province, unlocking construction on a project that will supply wheeled renewable energy to a major South African gold mining company.  Featuring JA Solar modules with single-axis trackers and Sungrow inverters, the plant is engineered for high-yield and long-term performance.

Statistics & Insights:

• Capacity & Output: The plant is 91.2 MW and will generate approximately 157 GWh of clean electricity annually.
  

• Investment/Debt: The total project value is R2 billion (approximately $117 million ). With    R1.2 billion ($70 million) debt package secured under a non-recourse project finance structure from Rand Merchant Bank (RMB).
  

•  Environmental Impact: Expected to avoid an estimated 4 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions over its 30-year operational life.
  

• Off-take: Power will be wheeled through Eskom’s grid to supply the gold miner's operations under a 5-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).
  

• Timeline: Construction is now mobilizing, with first power targeted for mid-2027.

Future Implications: If delivered on schedule, the project could reinforce grid stability, strengthen mining-sector decarbonisation. Its wheeling structure may also influence how industrial users across South Africa procure renewable power over the coming years.

Source: PV Magazine

Quick Take: Bela Bela solar deal powers mining ⚡