SOLAR & ENERGY EFFICIENCY
5
HDGASA is raising solar installation standards in South Africa
A s competition in the PV reduced to cut costs. “Steelwork, though a minor investment, is crucial for plant durability. However, quality and
suited to local conditions. He highlights corrosion protection as essential, noting hot dip galvanising can provide over 40 years of protection—longer than many plant components. However, he cautions that thinner steel and reduced galvanising may be inadequate in harsh environments, even if they suffice in milder conditions. Clarke urges project owners to rigorously assess environmental and soil conditions before selecting materials. He warns that, despite industry awareness, cost pressures
sector has intensified, robust specifications have often been
Steelwork, though a minor investment, is crucial for plant durability. However, quality and corrosion control are often overlooked.
corrosion control are often overlooked”, says HDGASA Executive Director Robin Clarke. Where sun meets steel Clarke says HDGASA works with PV installers to update outdated specifications and ensure materials are
accountability. Clarke says many companies aim for sustainability and use HDGASA guidance, but face competitors who cut costs by compromising standards or lack expertise. Solar-powered solutions He explains that pressure to minimise capital costs discourages robust specifications, but HDGASA is working with suppliers to ensure value and accountability as the sector grows. He concludes that design criteria must be tailored to each site and strongly urges project owners and designers to consult corrosion experts during planning to ensure accurate, site- specific assessments and long-term success.
may still result in suboptimal choices. Project owners and professionals should actively prioritise site-specific material assessments over cost-cutting. Rooftop solar systems have also faced challenges as early installations often overlooked roof condition. Now, assessments are routine to ensure roofs can support solar systems for the required investment period. Shining a light on localisation Clarke is concerned that imported steelwork remains common despite local capacity, creating accountability issues and specification mismatches. He stresses that project owners and decision-makers should actively choose local suppliers to help ensure quality and
www.hdgasa.org.za
The Khauta Solar Project: Trinasolar is pioneering South Africa’s renewable energy future
S outh Africa’s renewable energy sector is of the country’s largest solar farms, it includes two contracts delivered simultaneously: Khauta South at 352.5 MW and Khauta West at 157.8 MW, both located in Welkom, Free State Province. Trinasolar, working with a top South African EPC company, provided high- performance modules and comprehensive commercial and technical support, including post-contract adjustments. The project’s impact exceeds its scale; it showcases the maturity of South Africa’s solar sector. Successfully delivering two major contracts simultaneously required strong coordination among all parties and established a new regional standard for utility-scale solar. With 10 GW of installed capacity, South Africa now ranks among the top 20 solar PV markets globally. The Khauta project not only marks a significant growing quickly, with the 510 MW Khauta Solar Project marking an important milestone. As one milestone in this development but also demonstrates the trust that developers and EPCs have in Trinasolar. Completing a project of this scale presented unique challenges. Zaheer Khan, Regional Director – South Africa, Trinasolar, said, “Utility projects are complex, with evolving specifications, shifting timelines, and significant logistical demands. Our team provided ongoing support, adapting to requirements and working closely with the contracted EPC. This partnership helped overcome industry-wide hurdles such as supply chain logistics and grid connections, demonstrating that strong alliances and technology enable South Africa to deliver large-scale renewable projects.” Trinasolar’s collaboration with local partners extends beyond supply agreements. Their role encompasses the entire project lifecycle, from initial discussions to technical and after-sales support. The contract with Mulilo for the 220 MW Orkney Solar Project affirms their long-term presence in South Africa. The company aids the renewable energy sector through training, workshops, and knowledge sharing via TrinaHub, and encourages local wellness and youth initiatives. South Africa’s solar market is experiencing two main shifts: expansion in utility-scale projects and increased adoption of solar-plus-storage. Recent procurement rounds have set records, shifting focus to dispatchable
Utility projects are complex, with evolving specifications, shifting timelines, and significant logistical demands. Our team provided ongoing support, adapting to requirements and working closely with the contracted EPC. This partnership helped overcome industry-wide hurdles such as supply chain logistics and grid connections, demonstrating that strong alliances and technology enable South Africa to deliver large-scale renewable projects.
placed for sustained growth. Trinasolar’s innovation, sustainability initiatives, and local partnerships position it at the forefront of this transition.
renewable energy sector is positive. With a strong pipeline and supportive policies, the country is prepared for significant solar expansion. Grid access remains the main obstacle, but with investment and collaboration, the sector is well-
power, not just daytime generation. Trinasolar’s product range addresses these needs, with advanced modules and battery storage systems suitable for local conditions. The outlook for South Africa’s
www.trinasolar.com
SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS
MAY 2026
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