The 148MW Bolobedu solar farm in Limpopo, South Africa has been commissioned. Renewable energy company Voltalia brought the project into full operation, marking a significant milestone for private-sector clean energy projects in the region.
The electricity generated is transmitted through the national grid operated by Eskom and supplied to Richards Bay Minerals (RBM), which is owned by Rio Tinto, under a long-term corporate power purchase agreement. The solar facility is expected to produce about 300GWh of electricity annually, enough to meet the yearly needs of roughly 425,000 people. It is also projected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by more than 237,000 tonnes each year, contributing to both industrial decarbonisation and national climate goals.
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Socio-economic benefits
Beyond energy generation, the project has delivered notable socio-economic benefits. During construction, around 800 jobs were created for residents from nearby communities, with youth accounting for 56% of the workforce and women 21%. Workers gained practical skills in areas such as engineering support, solar panel installation, and health and safety practices.
Local economic participation was further supported through procurement from community-based transport cooperatives, women-led catering services, and handicraft suppliers. In addition, the project includes ongoing skills development initiatives to strengthen long-term capacity in the region.
Voltalia also highlighted a unique ownership aspect: two local women investors partnered in the project, making Bolobedu the first large-scale renewable energy development in the area backed entirely by women investors.
According to CEO Robert Klein, the project demonstrates the company’s commitment to accelerating industrial decarbonisation while fostering inclusive growth. Meanwhile, RBM managing director Werner Duvenhage emphasized that the initiative supports both energy security and the sustainability of mining operations.
The development aligns with Voltalia’s broader strategy across Africa, including its partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to expand “Power-to-Mine” projects, which aim to supply renewable energy directly to mining operations. Outside Africa, Voltalia is also advancing international projects, such as its agreement with JSC Uzenergosotish for the 526MW Artemisya hybrid project in Uzbekistan.
