Globeleq, a forefront independent power producer in Africa, has recently achieved Preferred Bidder status for its Red Sands project in the Northern Cape, as part of South Africa’s Energy Storage Capacity Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (ESIPPPP). The project, set to become Africa’s largest standalone battery energy storage system, is strategically located about 100km southeast of Upington, underscoring Globeleq’s commitment to pioneering energy solutions on the continent.
Initially developed by African Green Ventures (AGV), the South African subsidiary of the Norwegian company Magnora ASA, listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange, the Red Sands project will span approximately 5 hectares (12 acres). It is slated for connection to the national grid through the Eskom Garona substation, which will undergo significant upgrades to accommodate the full network support capabilities of the battery system.
Globeleq estimates the construction cost of the project at around US$300 million (ZAR5.7 billion), with a projected construction period of 24 months following the financial closure expected later this year. This development represents a substantial investment in South Africa’s renewable energy infrastructure and marks Globeleq’s inaugural venture into large-scale Battery Energy Storage Solutions (BESS) within the country. The company already operates eight renewable plants in South Africa, comprising six solar PV and two wind facilities, with a combined generating capacity of 384 MW.
Further diversifying its portfolio, Globeleq owns a combined solar and BESS plant in Cuamba, Mozambique, and is in the process of developing additional BESS projects across Africa. This strategic expansion into battery storage solutions signifies Globeleq’s dedication to enhancing energy reliability and sustainability on the continent, contributing significantly to Africa’s transition towards a more resilient and green energy future.
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