PPC and Yellow Door Energy sign 24.5 MW solar power purchase agreement

CEMENT producer PPC and renewable energy independent power producer (IPP) Yellow Door Energy, on Monday announced the signing of a landmark 24.5 MWp solar power purchase agreement (PPA).

"The project operates under a solar wheeling arrangement, where YDE’s solar park in Leeudoringstad, North West Province, will deliver clean electricity to four PPC operations via the Eskom grid. These include, PPC Slurry in the North West Province, PPC Dwaalboom in Limpopo and PPC De Hoek and PPC Riebeek in the Western Cape. More than 20 000 solar panels will be installed, generating 57.5 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of clean electricity in the first year of operation and offsetting 59 800 metric tons of carbon emissions," YDE said.

The project includes the installation of a 43 kilometre overhead electrical line to connect the solar park to an Eskom substation, enhancing grid infrastructure and facilitating access to clean electricity.

Ernesto Acosta, the chief operating officer at PPC, said, "We are excited to announce the signing of a solar power purchase agreement with YDE, marking the beginning of a long-term partnership. This agreement is our second partnership to secure renewable energy, which further demonstrates PPC’s commitment to reducing reliance on traditional energy sources..”

Forbes Padayachee, the CEO of YDE South Africa, said, “Through this solar wheeling arrangement, PPC is able to secure access to clean, affordable and reliable electricity without further physical constraints on their premises. At YDE, we remain dedicated to advancing renewable energy solutions for commercial and industrial entities, creating local jobs and contributing to South Africa’s energy security and Just Energy Transition.”

 As the independent power producer, YDE is responsible for financing, designing, constructing, commissioning, operating, and maintaining the Naledi Ya YDE Solar Park throughout the term of the PPA. 

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