Premier leads sod-turning for construction of solar plant project in Steelpoort
Ramathuba also visited the Fetakgomo Tubatse Special Economic Zone to examine the project’s progress.
The Limpopo premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, presided over the official sod-turning for the construction of phase 1 of a 100MW solar plant project at the Tubatse Chrome Club last Thursday, November 14.
The project is the initiative of the Limpopo government and Samancor Chrome, in partnership with CGN Energy International and the China-Africa Development Fund.
The ceremony was attended by the Chinese ambassador to South Africa, Wu Peng, and his delegation, Samancor’s top management, the Fetakgomo Tubatse Local Municipality’s mayor, Eddie Maila, Sinosteel South Africa, some Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism officials and other dignitaries.
This initiative forms part of the energy transition and introduction of alternative sources of renewable energy to create a clean environment and promote the mitigation of global warming.
In his welcoming remarks, Maila commended Ramathuba for identifying Fetakgomo Tubatse as one of the potential investment areas. He said this investment will assist the municipality to fight the triple challenges of unemployment, poverty and social inequality.
Ramathuba highlighted the project’s transformative impact on Limpopo.
She said the project promises significant economic benefits, generating jobs for the youth and skilled professionals, and fostering growth, stability and meaningful contribution.
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“By harnessing the sun’s power, we can reduce costs for families and businesses, easing the financial burdens on households and fostering a stronger economy. Today’s project is an excellent example of what can be achieved through public-private partnerships. With the collaboration of the China-Africa Fund, Samancor and CGN Africa Energy, we are witnessing a remarkable synergy between government and business. The path to green energy requires the strength of both sectors working together, and Limpopo is dedicated to creating an environment where these partnerships can thrive.”
The event was concluded with a visit to the Fetakgomo Tubatse Special Economic Zone (SEZ) to examine the progress of the project and to see how some of the businesses operating within the SEZ can be assisted.
