Northern Cape to benefit from massive battery storage project

ENVISION a South Africa where the lights stay on, industries thrive, and communities flourish – all powered by clean, sustainable energy. The Red Sands battery energy storage project is paving the way for this brighter future, harnessing the power of innovation to meet the country's growing energy needs.

Located in the Northern Cape, this groundbreaking project is set to become Africa's largest standalone battery energy storage system. With a capacity of 153 MW, it will play a vital role in stabilising the grid and supporting the integration of renewable energy sources.

Developed by Globeleq and African Rainbow Energy, this project is a significant milestone in South Africa's journey towards a more sustainable energy future.

By charging during off-peak periods using solar power and discharging during peak periods, the facility will reduce pressure on the grid and help ensure a reliable energy supply. The project's impact will be felt far and wide, supporting the local economy and contributing to a cleaner environment.

The project's success is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation. With funding secured from Absa and Standard Bank, the project is set to become a reality.

Sungrow's cutting-edge PowerTitan 2.0 liquid-cooled energy storage system will be used, and China Energy Engineering Corporation will serve as the engineering, procurement, and construction contractor.

As South Africa continues to transition towards a more sustainable energy future, projects like Red Sands will play a vital role in shaping the country's energy landscape. Scheduled to start operating in 2027, it's a step in the right direction for South Africa's transition to renewable energy.