Entities forge partnership for solar project

The AJP Group and GreenYellow unveiled a large-scale 4.6MW solar photovoltaic (PV) project that will span 10 sites across the East Rand to drive sustainability and operational efficiency.

The partnership was inaugurated at a ceremony at the AJP Group’s Kempton Park campus, where key representatives from both organisations celebrated the beginning of a transformative journey towards clean, cost-effective energy solutions.

“We look forward to this partnership, and today we celebrate this milestone with the GreenYellow team,” said John Baladakis, the group CEO at the AJP Group, as he welcomed guests.

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“The AJP Group has always prioritised innovation and sustainability in our property developments, and this collaboration will further enhance our commitment to reducing environmental impact while delivering significant value to our stakeholders.”

The initiative underscores the group’s strategy of embracing renewable energy to reduce reliance on the grid and cut overall operational costs.

Construction starts on March 26 at the Brentwood Park Mall in Benoni, with rooftop and carport solar PV installations designed for self-consumption.

All 10 shopping malls should be complete by November, ensuring that the AJP Group’s properties will begin reaping the benefits of clean, affordable solar energy before the end of the year.

Peter Baladakis, the COO of the AJP Group, shared his optimism about the project’s broader implications, “May this be a partnership that brings financial rewards and serves the greater good of our communities.

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“By prioritising sustainability, we actively contribute to a cleaner future while creating enduring value for everyone involved.”

GreenYellow’s distinctive SHIFT production model, which allows clients to adopt renewable energy without upfront capital expenditure or the operational complexities of managing energy assets, is at the heart of this agreement.

Instead, GreenYellow will assume full responsibility for financing, operating and maintaining the plants, offering the AJP Group a streamlined, worry-free solution.

Through a power purchase agreement (PPA), the project should yield significant long-term cost savings, estimated at 120% over its lifespan compared to conventional energy expenditure.

During the ceremony, John and Michael Ilias, country directors of GreenYellow South Africa, signed the contract, sealing the partnership in ink.

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This forward-thinking venture positions the AJP Group as a commercial real estate sustainability leader, aligning with SA’s broader objectives of reducing carbon footprints and bolstering energy resilience.

Ilias emphasised the collaboration’s strategic importance, “Partnering with the AJP Group on this solar PV initiative reaffirms our commitment to clean, affordable energy solutions. This collaboration goes beyond reducing grid dependence. It delivers significant long-term financial and environmental benefits.

“We look forward to the positive impact of these installations, enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability across the group’s commercial properties,” added Ilias.

“Signing this power purchase agreement is more than just a contract; it reflects shared values, a commitment to sustainability, and the strength of long-term collaboration.”

In 16 years, GreenYellow has become a major player in energy transition in France and a true partner of companies and communities.

As an expert in decentralised PV production, energy efficiency projects and energy and electric mobility services, GreenYellow supports its clients throughout the value chain.

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The company is responsible for developing, funding and operating infrastructure projects, enabling it to produce local and competitive green power, reduce its energy consumption and fast-track its decarbonisation.

Operating in 17 countries on four continents, GreenYellow constantly innovates to meet today’s climate challenges and expand its platform with unique and global offers.

For more information on GreenYellow, visit www.greenyellow.com