Ilikwa PV Facility has achieved Commercial Operation Date (COD), marking the commencement of commercial electricity supply to multiple private commercial and industrial customers.

Located near Parys in the Free State, the 50MW project represents another milestone in South Africa’s rapidly expanding private electricity market. Developed by Mainstream Renewable Power, Ilikwa PV Facility is jointly owned by Mainstream (70%) and Investec (30%), with Investec also providing funding.

The commercial operation of this facility reflects the accelerating liberalisation of South Africa’s electricity market, where businesses are increasingly seeking flexible, cost-effective renewable energy solutions outside the traditional utility supply model. By supplying multiple commercial and industrial customers through flexible, shorter-term Power Purchase Agreements, the project demonstrates how innovative contracting structures are broadening access to private renewable energy, strengthening energy security and supporting corporate decarbonisation while stimulating continued investment in generation capacity.

The facility will generate more than 140 GWh of renewable electricity annually from over 101 000 PV modules, helping businesses secure reliable, and competitively priced clean energy while avoiding approximately 100,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions each year.

“Ilikwa PV Facility, one of the first multiple customer offtake projects in the market, demonstrates what can be achieved when experienced partners work together towards a common goal,” said Hein Reyneke, General Manager, Mainstream South Africa.

Construction commenced in October 2024 and was completed over a 21-month period. At its peak, the project created employment opportunities for over 2 600 people, with the majority recruited from the neighbouring communities of Tumahole, Schonkenville and Vredefort. Working alongside construction partners, the project also prioritised local procurement and enterprise development, enabling meaningful participation by local businesses throughout the construction phase.

“This commercial operation milestone reflects what Mainstream has consistently delivered in South Africa over some fifteen 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.

Beyond construction, Ilikwa Solar is investing in the long-term development of neighbouring communities through education and skills development initiatives. These include a bursary programme for local youth, support for local entrepreneurs and education partnerships aimed at strengthening STEM learning and building future skills within the region.
“We are proud of this milestone and to be contributing to South Africa’s energy security and our customers’ decarbonisation objectives,” concluded Martin Meyer, Head of Energy and Infrastructure Finance at Investec.