Envision Energy has entered into a 660 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) supply agreement with SOLA Group and WBHO for the Naos-1 renewable energy project in South Africa. The agreement represents an important development in Envision Energy’s expansion strategy across Africa and further reinforces the company’s position within the continent’s growing clean energy industry.
The deal supports what has been described as the largest privately contracted hybrid renewable energy project in South Africa to achieve financial close. Through the combination of utility-scale solar generation and battery storage capacity, the Naos-1 renewable energy project is designed to deliver dispatchable renewable electricity to businesses throughout the country.
Integrated Solar and Battery Storage Development
The project is located near Viljoenskroon in South Africa’s Free State province and will bring together 300 MW of solar photovoltaic generation and 660 MWh of battery storage. By integrating these technologies, the project aims to provide reliable renewable power while addressing the variability often associated with renewable energy generation and contributing to grid stability.
Under the agreement, Envision Energy will draw on its vertically integrated BESS capabilities across the entire value chain. The company will provide technical support throughout the lifecycle of the energy storage system, covering design, manufacturing, operation and maintenance activities. Envision Energy stated that its battery technology, together with its AI-powered energy management system, will be deployed to optimize system performance and enhance operational reliability for the Naos-1 renewable energy project.
The arrangement also includes a 25-year Long-Term Service Agreement between Envision Energy and SOLA Group. This agreement covers ongoing operation and maintenance services for the battery storage system, supporting the long-term operation of the project.
Partners Outline Benefits of the Project
Commenting on the development, John Lee, General Manager of Asia & Africa Markets at Envision Energy, said, “Naos-1 demonstrates how integrated renewable and storage solutions can redefine the future energy systems, delivering not only clean power, but also reliability, flexibility, and economic value at scale.”
“Envision is proud to support this landmark project and to work alongside leading partners to accelerate the transition toward a more sustainable energy future in South Africa and across emerging markets,” he added.
Ian Burger, Managing Director of SOLA Build at SOLA Group said,”Across South Africa and beyond, businesses are seeking energy solutions that balance sustainability, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. Naos-1 reflects a new generation of energy infrastructure, one that is flexible, scalable, and aligned with the needs of modern power markets.”
“Through collaboration with strong technology partners like Envision Energy, we are helping to unlock new pathways for private-sector participation and advancing the development of a more resilient and future-ready energy system,” he added.
Agreement Follows Regional Expansion Move
The agreement was announced only days after Envision Energy launched its first Cape Town office. According to the company, the new office will operate as Envision Energy’s regional hub for Southern Africa, supporting expanding activities in wind power, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and integrated renewable energy solutions.
