Name of the Project
Kathu concentrated solar power (CSP) project.
Location
Northern Cape, South Africa.
Client
The project is being led by ENGIE (48.5%) and includes a group of South African investors comprising SIOC Community Development Trust, Investec bank, Lereko Metier and the Public Investment Corporation.
Project Description
The project involves the construction of a 100 MW greenfield CSP facility with parabolic technology and a molten storage system that allows for 4.5 hours of thermal energy storage. This will enable the plant to supply power for longer periods.
It is estimated that the Kathu solar park will save six-million tonnes of carbon dioxide over 20 years.
The solar power park was awarded preferred bidder status in the third round of the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme led by the Department of Energy.
Potential Job Creation
Between 1 200 and 1 500 jobs will be created during the construction phase.
Value
The project is estimated at R9-billion.
Debt funding will be provided by Rand Merchant Bank, Nedbank Capital, ABSA Capital, Investec and the Development Bank of Southern Africa.
Duration
The project is expected to be operational in the second half of 2018.
Latest Developments
Sener and Acciona Industrial have achieved a milestone with the start of the salt melting process at the Kathu Solar Park CSP plant.
The molten salt will be used to store heat from the solar field that can later be recovered to produce steam and generate electricity in the absence of solar radiation, extending the operational capacity of the plant after sunset and during cloudy weather.
The plant uses SENERtrough-2 collectors – a parabolic trough technology, that enables power supply during sunny periods as needed to satisfy the peak of demand without the expense of battery storage.
The joint venture between SENER and Acciona Industrial was appointed by the Engie-led consortium to provide engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) services for the project.
The project is due for completion within the next few months.
Key Contracts and Suppliers
Sener and Acciona Industrial (EPC, installation of electrical and mechanical components for all of the reflective mirrors and central power processing plant).
On Budget and on Time?
Not stated.
Contact Details for Project Information
ENGIE investor relations, tel +33 1 44 22 66 29 or email ir@gdfsuez.com.