Mainstream Renewable Power's 50MW C&I Ilikwa PV facility reaches commercial operation (pv-tech.org)

Ilikwa will supply multiple customers through flexible, shorter-term power purchase agreements (PPAs), according to the project owners. The contracting structure is intended to expand access to private renewable generation while supporting energy security and corporate decarbonisation. “This commercial operation milestone reflects what Mainstream has consistently delivered in South Africa over some 15 years—developing and delivering high-quality renewable energy projects that create lasting value for our customers, partners and communities,” said Julie Berg, group CEO of Mainstream. Construction of Ilikwa began in October 2024 and was completed over a 21-month period. More than 2,600 people were employed at the project’s peak construction period. The project also prioritised local procurement and enterprise development during construction, with local businesses participating across the project supply chain. The project’s commercial operation comes as South Africa’s private electricity market continues to expand. According to the Global Solar Council (GSC), South Africa’s cumulative solar PV capacity has surpassed 10GW, with the country adding around 1.6GW of new capacity in 2025 alone. Utility-scale and commercial and industrial (C&I) projects, alongside rapid growth in private rooftop solar, have driven the expansion. The country’s Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP) programme continues to support utility-scale deployment. Additionally, South...