Enel Green Power, the developers of the Tom Burke solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant, have applauded the work done with the project.
The project will be the IPP’s first large-scale solar project and will also be first to bring thin-film photovoltaic (PV) panels to the nation, according to an official statement by the company.
The power plant with an installed capacity of 66MW reached an early generation and commercial target in August 2016.
The location of this plant is an issue of national importance and has been declared as a key point by South Africa’s National Key Point Act (1980).
Furthermore, it lies in a critical strategic region and is responsible for supplying 122GWh per year to the national grid. It is also expected to source nine villages in the Lephalale region with a steady supply of electricity.
William Price, Country Manager in South Africa provided further details by stating that the solar panels are scheduled for up-keep at least twice annually. He also expressed his delight and pride to provide an increasingly integrated offering and a strong renewable energy generation base, which is a testimony to South Africa’s wealth in resources.
Mr. Price continued by affirming his belief in the role of renewable sources of energy, in providing a larger portion of the country with electricity. He also added that current and available technologies will be put to use to bridge the gap between supply and demand.