Aurex Completes Dual Utility-Scale Solar Projects

Utility-scale solar installations continue to play a central role in strengthening grid reliability and supporting decarbonisation in emerging energy markets. In this context, Aurex Constructors has completed two 75 MW solar PV plants in South Africa, marking the commercial operation of the Grootspruit and Graspan projects.

Parallel project delivery across distinct regions
The Grootspruit Solar PV plant in the Free State and the Graspan Solar PV plant in the Northern Cape have both reached Commercial Operation Date (COD), transitioning into full electricity generation. Delivered under Bid Window Five of the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP), the projects contribute a combined 150 MW of solar capacity to the national grid.

Both plants were constructed over an approximately 18-month timeline using a sub-EPC model, where ENGIE and Pele Green Energy supplied core equipment such as solar modules and inverters, while Aurex executed engineering design and full balance-of-plant construction. This included civil, mechanical, electrical, and commissioning activities.

Site-specific engineering challenges shape execution
Although both projects share identical capacity and similar technical configurations, their execution required different engineering responses due to local environmental and geological conditions.

The Grootspruit site, located near Welkom, introduced operational complexity due to heavy rainfall, which affected ground conditions and construction scheduling. In contrast, the Graspan site, approximately 100 km south of Kimberley, required adjustments to foundation and installation methods due to extensive rock formations.

These variations required adaptive construction planning, demonstrating how utility-scale renewable projects must account for terrain, soil composition, and climate variability during execution.

Expanding engineering capability through EPC integration
The projects also reflect a shift in Aurex’s operational model from construction-focused delivery toward integrated engineering and EPC capabilities. Through collaboration with ENGIE and Pele Green Energy, the company expanded its internal engineering capacity, enabling tighter coordination between design and construction phases.

By maintaining civil, mechanical, electrical, and commissioning functions in-house, Aurex reduces interface risks commonly associated with multi-contractor project structures. This integrated approach supports improved constructability, faster decision-making, and greater control over project timelines within the renewable energy value chain.

Contribution to energy transition and grid stability
Beyond project execution, the two solar plants contribute to South Africa’s broader energy transition objectives. Together, they are expected to reduce carbon emissions by approximately 100,000 tonnes annually and supply electricity to around 80,000 households.

The addition of 150 MW of renewable capacity supports grid stability while reducing dependence on conventional power sources, aligning with national targets for decarbonisation and energy security.

Positioning within the renewable energy sector
The completion of the Grootspruit and Graspan projects demonstrates the increasing importance of integrated EPC models in delivering large-scale renewable infrastructure. As project pipelines expand under programmes such as REIPPPP, the ability to manage engineering, procurement, and construction within a unified framework is becoming a key factor in ensuring delivery reliability and operational efficiency.

Edited by Aishwarya Mambet, Induportals Editor, with AI assistance.

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