- Scatec commenced commercial operations at its 273 MW Grootfontein solar plant under a 20-year PPA, marking the first REIPPPP Round 5 solar project to reach COD.
- The project will generate 700 GWh annually, cut 630,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions, and strengthen renewable capacity in the Western Cape.
Scatec ASA, a leading renewable energy company, has started commercial operations at its 273 megawatt (MW) Grootfontein solar power plant in South Africa’s Western Cape, the company said. The plant will operate under a 20-year power purchase agreement (PPA), which will provide predictable revenue streams.
Scatec expects Grootfontein to generate 700 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of clean energy annually, resulting in approximately 630,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions reduction per year. The project also forms the largest co-located solar PV cluster in the Western Cape and represents the first solar project to reach commercial operation under REIPPPP Round 5.
Meanwhile, Scatec holds a 51% stake in the project and provides operations, maintenance, and asset management services. H1 Holdings, a local Black Economic Empowerment partner, holds 46.5%, while the Grootfontein Local Community Trust holds 2.5%.
Furthermore, Scatec CEO Terje Pilskog said the project reinforces the company’s track record in South Africa and delivers long-term value to communities and partners. Alberto Gambacorta, EVP for Sub-Saharan Africa, added that Grootfontein strengthens Scatec’s position as a trusted renewable energy partner and supports the country’s energy transition.