The Department of Electricity and Energy has appointed eight bidders to supply solar energy as part of its initiative to procure 1,800 megawatts of renewable energy.
The bidding process, initiated in December last year, received 48 responses amounting to over 10.2 gigawatts.
These submissions included 40 solar projects and eight onshore wind projects evaluated on 15 August.
The department highlighted that a key focus of the initiative is ensuring a strong return on investment.
The eight selected solar bidders will collectively invest R31.4 billion, with Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa confirming their commitment to creating nearly 7,000 job opportunities for South African citizens.
Additionally, the bidders pledged to allocate 38% of their total project costs to local content, translating to R7.8 billion during the construction phase and R2.8 billion during operation and maintenance.
The department also revealed it is considering appointing additional bidders to expand the scope of the initiative.
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