Work is progressing on the South African government’s Risk Mitigation Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (RMIPPPP). A new project by Scatec will have a total solar capacity of 540 MW and battery storage capacity of 225 MW/1140 MWh and provide 150 MW of dispatchable power under a 20-year power purchase agreement. It is due to start supplying power within 15 months. The company's bid is based on sites located in the sun-drenched Northern Cape Province. The projects have a total estimated Capex of US$1-billion.
Legislation requires the project to always maintain a net gain of species. In the case of quiver trees, the flora permit requires that ten new trees be planted for every single relocated tree. As part of the development of the site, Scatec had to undertake an environmental impact assessment. The Kenhardt region is rich in plant biodiversity. The 16 species of fauna and 99 plants (flora) species of “conservation concern” life puts a special responsibility on anyone who does any kind of construction work in the vicinity.
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