Chinese photovoltaic (PV) and energy storage systems company Trina Solar announced on Wednesday that it has entered a partnership with China Energy International Group and China Gezhouba Group to develop the Mooi Plaats PV power plant project. Mooi Plaats is in the Northern Cape province. The project is being financed by EDF Renewables, with participation by South African financial institutions.

“We are proud to partner with China Energy International Group and China Gezhouba Group to bring this groundbreaking project to fruition,” affirmed Trina Solar global sales & marketing president Bao Yang. “With a total capacity of 283 MWdc, the Mooi Plaats PV power plant project is considered the largest single PV power plant project in South Africa and is set to make a substantial impact on the region’s energy landscape. This collaboration exemplifies our shared commitment to driving sustainable development and powering the future of energy in South Africa.”

The construction of the PV power plant is planned to take 22 months. It will be composed of 416 325 solar panels, with an efficiency of up to 23.2% (which is high for solar panels). Power generated by Mooi Plaats will be carried by a 132 kV transmission line to the Korusan substation, 12 km distant.

“We are excited to join forces with Trina Solar on this landmark project,” enthused China Energy International Group South Africa GM Hu Yuhong. “This collaboration represents a significant step towards achieving our shared goal of promoting clean energy and sustainable development in South Africa.”

“As a leading player in the global energy sector, we are proud to contribute our expertise to this project, which will not only deliver clean, reliable power but also drive economic growth and job creation in the region,” highlighted China Gezhouba Group Mooi Plaats project manager Chen Zhipei.

Trina Solar is listed on the Science and Technology Innovation Board of the Shanghai Stock Exchange. It develops and produces PV modules and smart energy systems and solutions, including the development of complete PV power plants and the associated smart energy systems.