South Africa has advanced its clean energy transition with the commissioning of the Mooi Plaats Solar Plant, a solar photovoltaic (PV) facility situated in the Northern Cape near the town of Noupoort. With a capacity of 240 megawatts (MW), the Mooi Plaats Solar Plant stands as the largest single-site solar power project in the country, underscoring a major milestone for the renewable energy sector. The project reflects a broader national push to expand sustainable power generation while addressing long-standing challenges related to energy supply and stability.
Developed as part of the Koruson 2 cluster, the Mooi Plaats Solar Plant has been delivered by Envusa Energy, a joint venture between Anglo American and EDF Renewables. This marks the first major project completed under Envusa’s wider strategy to build up to 5 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy capacity by 2030. The development highlights the increasing importance of private sector collaboration in accelerating large-scale clean energy projects. It also demonstrates how strategic partnerships are playing a pivotal role in reshaping the country’s energy landscape.
From a technical standpoint, the facility integrates advanced solar technologies designed to maximise efficiency and output. The site is equipped with more than 416,000 bifacial solar panels capable of capturing sunlight from both sides, enhancing energy generation potential. These panels are mounted on a single-axis tracking system that follows the sun’s movement throughout the day. Supported by around 1,000 string inverters, the Mooi Plaats Solar Plant is expected to produce nearly 360 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, reinforcing its role as a key contributor to South Africa’s renewable energy capacity.
The primary objective of the plant is to deliver reliable, clean electricity to major industrial users. Under a 20-year agreement, power generated at the facility will be supplied to Anglo American’s mining operations, including De Beers and Kumba IronOre. This transition is set to lower carbon emissions and reduce dependence on the national grid. In addition to its environmental impact, the project has contributed to local economic development and social benefits. Overall, the Mooi Plaats Solar Plant serves as a model for future renewable initiatives, demonstrating how coordinated efforts can enhance energy security, drive sustainability, and support community development.
