EDF Renewables Commissions SA’s First IPP-Built Substation, Connecting 1.5 GW of Clean Energy

In a major milestone for South Africa’s renewable energy landscape, EDF Renewables, a subsidiary of Électricité de France (EDF) Group, has successfully commissioned the country’s first main transmission substation built entirely by an independent power producer (IPP).

Located near Noupoort in the Northern Cape, the Koruson 400/132 kV substation will enable the connection of 1.5 GW of renewable energy to South Africa’s national grid. This marks a significant leap forward in private sector-led energy infrastructure development.

The substation supports the Koruson 1 cluster, a project that includes three wind farms totaling 420 MW of capacity under REIPPPP Round 5. The facility was developed in partnership with local BEE stakeholders, including H1 Holdings, Gibb-Crede, and a community trust.

“This is the first greenfield substation in over seven years and the first fully self-built and commissioned by an IPP,” said Tshepo Tshivhasa, Head of Grid Engineering at EDF Renewables.

The substation features Phase 6 advanced protection, control, and automation systems, and ties into an existing 400 kV transmission line, which required upgrades to meet NERSA and Eskom standards.

Next Phase: Koruson 2 Cluster and Envusa Energy

In the second phase, Envusa Energy—a joint venture between EDF Renewables and Anglo American—will connect an additional 520 MW of wind and solar energy through Koruson 2. This will involve the construction of new distribution links integrated into Eskom’s infrastructure.

“This landmark project sets a new precedent for IPP-driven grid infrastructure in South Africa,” said Tristan de Drouas, CEO of EDF Renewables.

The Koruson substation is now a critical hub for grid-integrated clean energy, signaling a shift towards greater IPP participation in grid expansion—a role traditionally dominated by the state-owned utility Eskom.

Boost for Grid Capacity and Energy Security

The development supports the country’s long-term Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) goals by adding much-needed grid access for renewables. It also strengthens the Northern Cape’s role as a renewable energy powerhouse thanks to its excellent solar and wind resources.

As South Africa faces persistent electricity supply challenges, innovations like the Koruson substation offer a scalable model for private sector involvement in resilient energy infrastructure—critical to securing a just energy transition.

{Source IOL}

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