Eskom launches tender for up to 30 MW of solar
South African utility Eskom is searching for an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractor to build a solar plant up to 30 MW in size at the site of an existing power station in the eastern part of the country. The deadline for applications is Oct. 29.
South Africa’s 7th renewables procurement round highly oversubscribed
South Africa’s latest auction is the first to be held under a December 2022 government plan to procure 14,771 MW of new generating capacity.
Scatec sells stakes in South African, Rwandan solar plants
Norwegian developer Scatec is selling a proportion of its interest in three solar power plants in South Africa and has completed the sale of its entire stake in a Rwandan facility. It says the agreements will finance further growth opportunities.
Engie, Pele Green building 75 MW of solar in South Africa
Engie says it has begun construction on a 75 MW solar plant in South Africa’s Free State province. The project is one of two installations it is building in partnership with Pele Green Energy.
Ramaphosa reveals 22,500 MW renewables pipeline in South Africa
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, in his first speech since forming a coalition government in May, said the nation is experiencing a “renewable energy revolution,” with upcoming projects expected to attract around ZAR 400 billion ($21.9 million) in private investment.
South Africa commissions largest wheeling project to date
South Africa has commissioned its largest wheeling project, with SOLA Group supplying more than 200 MW of solar power to Tronox Mineral Sands via the Eskom network.
South Africa imposes 10% import tariff on solar panels
The International Trade Administration Commission of South Africa (ITAC) has imposed a 10% import tariff on solar panels to protect local manufacturers, attract investment, and deepen the value chain. The South African Photovoltaic Industry Association has questioned the lack of formal industry engagement, calling the timing “not ideal.”
EU set to dig into raw materials supply
The European Union has drawn up new regulations to boost the domestic mining of raw materials and support production of renewable energy products and materials at home. Will it be enough to incentivize investment, or will Europe trail other major economies, such as the United States and China?
Amea Power secures financing for 120 MW of solar in South Africa
Amea Power says it has obtained financing for a 120 MW solar plant near Klerksdorp, South Africa. The funds include $100 million in debt from Standard Bank South Africa and $8 million in equity from Industrial Development Corp.
Novel attempt to design solar cell based on chalcogenide perovskite delivers 13.86% efficiency
Scientists in South Africa have proposed a new chalcogenide perovskite solar cell design based on a compound known as barium zirconium sulfide. They tested different hole transport materials in the new device and found that a polymer known as P3HT achieved the best performance.
