Pretoria Photovoltaic Energy Storage Project

How many MW will South Africa's solar power plant deliver?

With an installed solar capacity of 540 MW of PV, and a battery storage capacity of 225MW/1,140MWh, the plant is designed to deliver 150 MW of dispatchable power from 5 am to 9.30 pm year-round to the national grid under a 20-year power purchase agreement with South Africa’s national power utility company, Eskom.

Why did CSIR build a solar power plant?

The CSIR constructed a solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant on its Pretoria campus as part of its research into technologies and policies to support the increased use of renewable energy in South Africa. It also marks the start of a journey to a carbon-neutral campus.

What is a hybrid solar and battery storage plant?

The hybrid solar and battery storage plant integrates solar and battery technologies, overcoming intermittency challenges and bolstering grid stability. With the ability to deliver reliable power in low or no sunlight, the integrated storage enhances overall reliability.

How will CSIR's solar power plant impact the environment?

The facility will also be used to train PV engineers and technicians. The solar power generated by the facility will equate to an annual carbon dioxide saving of approximately 1 200 tons, which will significantly reduce the CSIR’s carbon footprint. The plant has an expected lifetime of at least 25 years. For more information, contact: or

Will the Oya energy hybrid facility ease South Africa's power crisis?

Construction of the Oya Energy Hybrid Facility after financial close, with a fast-tracked completion date of no longer than 18 months thereafter, should help ease South Africa’s power crisis.

How many solar panels does CSIR have?

The solar array consists of a total of 1 800 PV modules with a total surface of 3 493 m2. The power that is generated feeds directly into the CSIR’s campus grid, therefore, no energy storage is needed.