Valued at R800 million in its initial investment, SPS’ contract is an integral part of the larger OMMP, which is optimising and accelerating the completion of the Government-conceived Olifants River Water Resources Development Project (ORWRDP) and expanding its scope to include potable water infrastructure.
Sustainable Power Solutions (SPS), a leading asset management company in the renewable energy sector, has been selected as the preferred bidder for a significant contract by the Lebalelo Water User Association (LWUA), soon to be known as Badirammogo Water User Association, to provide a Renewable Energy Solution (RES). SPS’ solar photovoltaic (PV) and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) solution will provide power to key infrastructure for the first stage of a vital water infrastructure development programme in Limpopo, known as the Olifants Management Model Programme (OMMP).
Public-private collaboration is key
The OMMP is a public-private collaboration between Institutional Members (Government) and Commercial Members (the private sector, including mining companies and industrial users), and is being implemented by LWUA. The OMMP involves constructing 200 km of bulk raw water pipelines and 675 km of potable water pipelines, along with several pump stations, reservoirs and water treatment works. Rolled out in phases, the programme fast-tracks bulk raw and potable water supply infrastructure for communities and commercial users (including mines, industrial users) in Sekhukhune and Mogalakwena, optimises existing infrastructure and water supply of the De Hoop and Flag Boshielo Dams in the Middle Olifants catchment, and enhances water supply to Polokwane Local Municipality, which faces a 30Ml/day water shortage.Renewable energy-powered water supply

Says Bertus Bierman, CEO of Lebalelo Water User Association:
“SPS emerged as the successful bidder in a competitive tender process, showcasing their extensive expertise, flexibility and ability to tailor funding solutions. Their innovative approach to integrating renewable technologies and sustainable practices positions them uniquely to meet the energy needs of the Association’s expansion into the Northern Limb through the OMMP.”“This project is an exciting pivot for SPS,” says Paul Rosenbrock, Business Developer at SPS. “We are leveraging our renewable energy expertise to make a tangible difference in communities that need it most. By supplying a renewable energy solution that will pump bulk raw water into areas currently lacking access, we are not only supporting the mining sector but fundamentally improving the quality of life for thousands of people.” The RES will also have a profound environmental impact, reducing over 13 million kilograms of carbon emissions annually by eliminating the need for diesel generators.
Social and Economic Development
In accordance with tender requirements, 1% of the project value will be allocated to Socio-Economic Development (SED) initiatives. This will ensure that local communities benefit directly from the investment through potable water, enterprise development, education and connectivity. A key SED initiative that forms part of the OMMP is the School Upgrade Programme, which provides essential infrastructure to schools across Limpopo to foster educational advancement. Beyond water security, the programme will fuel industrial development and regional growth in Sekhukhune, Mogalakwena and Polokwane. The impact is far reaching as the full OMMP is expected to create around 42,000 jobs (direct, indirect and induced), thus bolstering the local economy.“Winning this contract is a testament to our team’s commitment,” says Anja Visagie, Head of Project Development at SPS. “SPS is not just enhancing water security but we’re also contributing long-term economic growth, job creation and community empowerment. Furthermore, this kind of renewable energy solution can be replicated for industries that don’t have access to the grid, offering reliable power at competitive rates compared to utility connections.”
About SPS
