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Renergen Ltd., a South African natural gas producer, has raised concerns about the “unauthorised construction” of a solar project within its designated production area, spotlighting some complexities in South Africa’s shift to renewable energy.
According to Renergen, the Springbok Solar Project began construction “without our prior consent or a co-existence agreement,” though the company refrained from naming the developer in its statement.
SOLA Group, identified as the developer of the 150 MW solar plant in Virginia, Free State Province, lists major clients including Amazon, AB InBev, and Sibanye Stillwater Ltd.
In response, SOLA stated that Springbok “has obtained all necessary lawful authorisations to begin construction,” adding that Renergen initially raised no objections but later issued letters seeking layout changes, compensation, and a halt to the project’s progress.
As South Africa faces rolling blackouts and an energy transition away from coal, the nation aims to add 50 GW of wind and solar by 2030 to support more sustainable energy.
Renergen views itself as part of this shift, producing helium-rich natural gas, which CEO Stefano Marani notes is “essential in fabricating solar panels and wind turbines.”
Renergen claims other solar and battery storage projects are also planned within its production rights zone. The disagreement escalated when Renergen appealed several of Springbok’s approvals and initiated legal action.
SOLA countered by questioning Renergen’s helium rights, alleging they were “applied for on the basis of a material misrepresentation by Renergen.” |
