Independent power producer ENGIE has successfully acquired renewable energy company BTE Renewables in South Africa following the transaction, announced in June, reaching financial close on December 13.

With this transaction concluded, ENGIE, with the inclusion of BTE, will now operate 1.6 GW of assets in South Africa.

The deal will bring with it an additional 340 MW net of renewable operating assets and a portfolio of more than 3 GW of advanced development projects into ENGIE’s portfolio.

This follows the successful financial close of two solar photovoltaic plants of Grootspruit and Graspan, announced earlier in December.

BTE Renewables brings to the ENGIE operations in South Africa two onshore wind farms: the 32 MW Excelsior Wind in Swellendam, and the 120 MW Golden Valley Wind near Bedford; and three solar PV plants: the 46 MW Aggeneys Solar PV in Aggeneys, the 86 MW Konkoonsies II Solar PV in Pofadder, and the 86 MW MBP Solar PV in Prieska.

The acquisition of BTE Renewables concludes a transformative year for ENGIE in South Africa, doubling the organisation’s installed renewables capacity, its number of operating assets, development pipeline and workforce.

ENGIE South Africa CEO and renewables for Asia, Middle East and Africa MD Mohamed Hoosen says t integrating BTE Renewables into ENGIE’s operations significantly boosts its renewables portfolio and pipeline, which reinforces the company’s dedication to accelerating South Africa’s energy transition.

“It also illustrates ENGIE’s commitment to South Africa, where we have been present for over 15 years. We will continue to invest in energy infrastructure and projects to contribute to a more secure energy landscape for the country,” he adds.

BTE Renewables CEO Robert Skjodt says that becoming a part of the ENGIE group marks a new era for BTE Renewables. “Our commitment to renewable energy and sustainable practices aligns seamlessly with ENGIE’s ethos.”

At present, ENGIE owns, operates and maintains two 100 MW concentrated solar power (CSP) plants: the Xina Solar One, in Pofadder; and the Kathu Solar Park in Kathu.

In addition, ENGIE also owns and operates an onshore wind farm, the 94 MW West Coast 1; two solar photovoltaic plants: the Aurora and Vredendal, both accounting for 21 MW; and two thermal peaking power plants: the 670 MW Avon and 335 MW Dedisa.

Further, the company is working towards reaching financial close on the OYA Hybrid project – expected early in 2024.