PPC Ltd and Yellow Door Energy (YDE) have signed a landmark 24.5MW solar power purchase agreement (PPA).
YDE's solar park in Leeudoringstad, North West Province, will deliver clean electricity to four PPC operations via the Eskom grid. PPC Slurry in North West Province, PPC Dwaalboom in Limpopo, and PPC De Hoek and PPC Riebeeck in the Western Cape. To achieve a generation of 57.5mkWh of clean electricity in the first year of operation, more than 20,000 solar panels will be installed. It is expected that the shift to solar energy will offset 59,800t of carbon emissions.
The project includes the installation of a 43km overhead electrical line to connect the solar park to an Eskom substation, enhancing grid infrastructure and facilitating access to clean electricity.
Ernesto Acosta, 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. The project is another step towards achieving our strategic objectives to rebuild a profitable and sustainable."
YDE South Africa CEO, Forbes Padayachee, said: "We are proud to sign this monumental long-term power purchase agreement with PPC. 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."
YDE, as the independent power generator, is responsible for financing, designing, constructing, commissioning, operating and maintaining the Naledi Ya YDE Solar Park throughout the term of the PPA.
