Parsons Power Park Solar Project Begins Construction In Nelson Mandela Bay

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21-05-2026
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Solar Quarter
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Construction has officially begun on Phase 1A of the Parsons Power Park solar project in Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa, marking another important development in the country’s expanding private renewable energy sector. The project is being developed on a 58-hectare site, covering an area nearly equal to 80 football fields, and is expected to produce 31 megawatts of clean electricity once completed.

The solar project is a joint initiative between independent power producers Yellow Door Energy, Raw Renewables, and Natura Energy. Construction activities are being managed by Alensy Energy Solutions. Financial close for the project was achieved earlier this year, allowing the development to move ahead as planned. The facility is scheduled to begin operations in the first quarter of 2027.

Once operational, the solar plant will deliver renewable power directly to businesses operating within the Coega Special Economic Zone as well as other areas across Nelson Mandela Bay. The project will make use of the municipality’s existing electricity network, helping businesses gain access to cleaner and more reliable energy supplies.

To improve energy generation efficiency, the facility will install more than 47,000 solar panels equipped with single-axis tracking technology. These trackers allow the panels to follow the movement of the sun throughout the day, increasing electricity production. The plant is expected to generate nearly 60 gigawatt-hours of renewable electricity annually.

The environmental benefits of the project are also significant. Developers estimate that the clean energy generated by the facility will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by around 54,360 tonnes every year. This reduction supports South Africa’s broader efforts to lower emissions and increase the use of renewable energy sources in the national energy mix.

Apart from environmental gains, the project is also expected to create economic opportunities for the local community. During the construction phase, several employment opportunities will be made available for local residents. The developers have also committed to supporting local subcontractors through a dedicated community-focused initiative.

PowerX, a private electricity trading company, has been confirmed as the off-taker for the project under a power purchase agreement. The company has more than ten years of experience in renewable energy trading and was the first private electricity trader in South Africa to receive a trading license from the national energy regulator.

Several specialized firms are supporting the development, including 3E Renewable Energy Services as owner’s engineer, SRK Consulting for environmental compliance, and Engineering Advice & Services for construction health and safety oversight. The Parsons Power Park project is expected to strengthen clean energy infrastructure and support economic growth in the region.