AMSA Vanderbijlpark Solar 2

The Applicant (ArcelorMittal South Africa Ltd (AMSA)) is proposing the development of a 117MWAC Solar Plant, near Vanderbijlpark in the Emfuleni Local Municipality within the jurisdiction of the Sedibeng District Municipality, Gauteng Province. The site falls within the urban edge and within the boundaries of AMSA’s Vanderbijlpark facility. The purpose of the project is to supply electricity to AMSA’s operations. The project will cover a surface area of approximately 255ha and comprise 217 020 bifacial panels. The panels will cover an area of approximately 183ha, with a height of 1.62m at zero tilt and 2.7m when fully tilted. A BESS (Battery Energy Storage System) is eventually anticipated to be included and will utilise Li-Ion, Fe-Air, VRFB or Sodium Sulfur batteries. Approximately, 12 250 m3 of water is to be used during construction with approximately, 5 300 m3 per annum being used during operational phase. This water will be supplied by the municipality via pipes. O&M Buildings, Control Areas, Security - standard single storey height or warehouse not exceeding 8.6m in height will be constructed. Existing roads will be utilised as far as possible, with the limited construction of additional permanent access roads where required. Construction will take approximately 18 months with 250 people employed. The facility will operate for an expected 25 years and employ approximately 20 people. The facility can either be decommissioned or alternatively be upgraded for another >30 years of operations.
Province(s): Gauteng