TNPA appoints preferred bidder for PV plant at Port of Richards Bay

Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has appointed Amulet Group Consortium as the preferred bidder to construct and operate its first 20 MW solar photovoltaics (PV) plant at the Port of Richards Bay.

The construction of the plant is part of TNPA’s commitment to decarbonise its port operations under its Renewable Energy Purchase programme. Within this programme, TNPA plans to install an estimated 100 MW of renewable energy that will be implemented cumulatively across its South Africa’s eight commercial seaports.

In line with South Africa’s commitment to find ways to transition to a net-zero emission economy by 2050, Transnet has committed to a low-carbon transition of its operations in order to offset the effects of climate change.

The appointment of Amulet Group Consortium follows a Request for Proposals procurement process which TNPA embarked on in May 2023.

The Consortium will be responsible for designing, constructing, testing, commissioning, operating and maintaining a 20 MW solar PV Plant with a battery energy system at the Port of Richards Bay for seven years.

“The introduction of a renewable energy solution in the port system will enable the reduction of carbon emissions and greenhouse gas emissions from coal-generated electricity. It will further provide a cost-effective and reliable energy supply to the port and its users,” said Moshe Motlohi, TNPA Managing Executive for the Eastern Region ports.

Amulet Group Consortium consists of Amulet Group and LTM Energy Group, bringing in solid skills and experience obtained primarily in the energy industry. The Consortium has a proven track record of providing innovative and sustainable energy solutions. Key projects executed include developing gas-insulated substations of up to 765KV, constructing power transmission lines, building solar farms of up to 1GW, and installing automation and control panels for corporate giants in South Africa.

TNPA anticipates that the design and construction of the solar PV plant will commence in June 2024 and it will be operational by 31 May 2026.