South Africa Approves 890MW New Solar Projects Under REIPPPP

South Africa has announced the appointment of additional Preferred Bidders to deliver 890 megawatts (MW) of solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity, further expanding the country's renewable energy programme and a R16 billion investment into the economy.

With this announcement, total capacity procured under Bid Window 7 of the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP) now stands at 3,940MW, delivered through 18 solar PV independent power producer projects.

Speaking to the media in Pretoria, Electricity and Energy Minister, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa said the additional capacity supports government’s efforts to stabilise electricity supply while promoting economic growth and job creation. “South African equity participation of 49% across all Preferred Bidders and average Black Economic Empowerment participation of 40% have been committed by these projects,” he added.

Ramokgopa explained that the additional projects emerged from strong market interest, with 48 bidders offering a combined 10.2GW, which more than double the initially requested capacity. While the government initially prepared for about 1,760MW of solar PV, four additional projects were approved after engagement on pricing and compensation, bringing 890MW online.

The Minister noted that the new projects are expected to reach the grid within 24 months, reinforcing government’s commitment to expanding generation capacity in line with growing economic activity. Three of the four newly announced projects were awarded to Red Rocket, with facilities located in the Free State and Northern Cape.

“We want the South African economy to grow. We want investors to come into this space, we want to get people into employment, and we are going to use energy to get the economy going,” Ramokgopa said.

The R16 billion investment linked to the newly announced projects will flow directly into the South African economy, supporting industrial development, employment, and long-term energy security.