Google’s investment in SA PV project

11 June 2013 – Among the US$$1 billion Google has invested in renewable energy projects around the world is the US$12 million it has put into the Jasper Power Project in South Africa’s Northern Cape. When complete, the 96 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) facility will be capable of generating enough electricity for 30,000 South African homes.

South Africa has the biggest solar market on the African continent, thanks to a well-structured government program. The government has set an aggressive goal of generating almost 18,000 MW from renewables by 2030.

The Jasper Power Plant project is Google’s 12th renewable energy project to date. The project, developed and funded by SolarReserve, Intikon Energy and the Kensani group, is also backed by Rand Merchant Bank, the Public Investment Corporation, the Development Bank of South Africa and the PEACE Humansrus Trust.

The project will create approximately 300 construction and 50 permanent jobs in the region.