South Africa’s first wind-hydro-solar power plant to wheel energy across the national grid has secured a financing deal and has started construction.
The 5MW run-of-river plant, situated within the Lesotho Highlands Water Scheme, has signed a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Growthpoint Properties. Scheduled for commercial operation by July 2025, the plant will generate 30GWh annually, which will be transmitted via the Eskom grid and traded through licensed electricity trader Etana to various commercial buildings, reports ESI Africa.
According to WaterPower, the Boston Hydro project is expected to reduce CO₂ emissions by 600 000 tons over 20 years and create 100 local jobs during construction. This is renewable energy company Serengeti Energy’s fourth hydroelectric plant along the Ash River water transfer scheme, all of them contributing to non-intermittent, baseload power for the national grid.
“We are thrilled to announce the financial close and commencement of construction for Boston Hydro Power Plant. This milestone underscores Serengeti Energy’s ability to meet the growing demand for renewable energy while fostering environmental stewardship and economic growth for the region,” says Serengeti Energy CEO Anton-Louis Olivier.
ESI Africa indicates that electricity wheeling is expected to make a significant impact on the nation’s energy infrastructure by facilitating efficient energy distribution, while the PPA model guarantees consumers reliable and affordable access to clean energy.
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