The South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA) has welcomed the commitment shown by Government with the release of Bid Window 6 of the Renewable Energy IPP Procurement Programme.
Following closely on the awarding of preferred bidders for Bid Window 5, this new bid window is critical in the drive to get much needed additional generation capacity onto the grid. As a trusted partner to government, and in support of its members, the Association says it stands ready to support members in ensuring the success of this bidding round.
Welcoming the news, SAPVIA spokesperson Maloba Tshehla said, “This is another positive step forward for the Solar PV sector, and the broader renewable energy market, in our ambition to deliver affordable, secure and clean energy supply to the country. We must do this, as embodied in the economic development requirements of the programme, contributing to South Africa’s development needs.
“The continued release of bid windows in a timely fashion demonstrates clearly that the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) is intent on harnessing renewable energy capacity to meet the country’s energy requirements and in doing so consistently, leverage this significant infrastructure programme to drive economic development.
Solar PV presents the least-cost, quickest-to-build option and with ever-advancing technological capabilities, our sector continues to play an increasingly important role in meeting the country’s capacity requirements, while driving our journey of a just transition”
Solar PV will account for 1000 MW of procured energy in Bid Window 6, with bid submissions scheduled for 11 August 2022.
“We look forward to working with our members, the DMRE, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) and other stakeholders to realise the opportunities built into the programme’s economic development requirements.
“SAPVIA wishes all bidding entities, their contracts and suppliers well in the months ahead, as they gear up for projects bid submission.”
Contact Kim Thomas, SAPVIA, Phone 021 200-5856, kim@sapvia.co.za , www.sapvia.co.za
