Independent power producer SOLA has commissioned the 195-megawatt Springbok Solar Power Project, advancing South Africa’s renewable energy transition. The R2.8 billion facility, completed ahead of schedule, introduces Africa’s first utility-scale, multi-buyer solar model that changes how electricity is produced, transmitted, and consumed.
Power Wheeling at Scale
Power wheeling forms the project’s foundation. This system allows electricity generated in one location to move through the national grid and reach multiple users. Springbok delivers Africa’s first large-scale example of this model, creating a more flexible and efficient approach to energy distribution.
Corporate clients including Amazon Web Services and Sibanye-Stillwater serve as anchor off-takers, joined by Vodacom, Sasol, Afrimat, Old Mutual, Redefine Properties, Rio Tinto, and BRM Brands. Their participation underscores growing corporate demand for reliable, low-carbon energy sourced through private agreements.
Multi-Buyer Model and Financial Support
The multi-buyer structure lets multiple companies share one renewable power source, helping them reduce emissions while maintaining grid stability. SOLA emphasized that this setup directly aligns energy reliability with sustainability goals. Financial partners RMB, Investec, Absa Group, Revego Fund Managers, and Ubuzwe provided the investment that made the project possible.
Expanding Renewable Capacity
With Springbok operational, SOLA now operates a 464 MWp grid-connected portfolio, making it South Africa’s largest wheeling power producer. This expansion strengthens the country’s efforts to diversify its energy mix and broaden access to clean, reliable electricity for commercial users.
The Springbok project demonstrates how infrastructure, investment, and regulatory alignment can accelerate renewable energy growth across Africa. As demand increases and environmental regulations evolve, projects built on SOLA’s model will likely drive new capacity and innovation in the sector. The company’s decentralized, privately financed approach complements national grid development and supports a sustainable energy future for the region. Read about more like this here
