The Koruson 2 wind and solar power cluster in South Africa has reached full commercial operation, supplying 520 MW of renewable electricity to the national grid. Developed by Envusa Energy, a joint venture between Anglo American and EDF Power Solutions, the project combines three utility-scale facilities across the Eastern and Northern Cape. This significant milestone was achieved through the collaboration of multiple stakeholders and substantial investment.
The Koruson 2 project consists of the 240 MW Mooi Plaats solar PV farm, the 140 MW Umsobomvu wind farm, and the 140 MW Hartebeesthoek wind farm. These facilities together deliver the full 520 MW capacity, contributing substantially to South Africa's renewable energy goals. Each facility reached commercial operation at different times, with Mooi Plaats starting in March 2026, Umsobomvu in April 2026, and Hartebeesthoek reaching 130 MW of output by August 5, 2026.
The power generated by the Koruson 2 cluster is fed into the Koruson 400 kV transmission substation, which links the output to Eskom's national grid under long-term offtake agreements. This setup enables the distribution of clean energy to various parts of the country, supporting the transition to a more sustainable energy mix. The cluster's integration into the grid is a significant step towards reducing South Africa's reliance on coal-fired power.
The electricity produced by Koruson 2 is primarily contracted to energy-intensive miners, including Valterra Platinum, Kumba Iron Ore, and De Beers. These companies will benefit from the stable and renewable energy supply, helping them manage electricity costs and reduce their carbon footprint. The long-term agreements ensure a predictable and reliable power supply for these critical industries.
Envusa Energy estimates that the Koruson 2 cluster will avoid roughly 2.2 million tonnes of CO2 emissions each year by displacing more carbon-intensive generation. This significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and supports South Africa's commitments under the Paris Agreement. The environmental benefits of the project are substantial and long-lasting.
The development of Koruson 2 was a major undertaking that required substantial investment, valued at between R15 billion and R16 billion. The project created over 2,000 jobs during construction, contributing to local economic growth and development. Additionally, more than R70 million was directed into local businesses and community trusts, further enhancing the project's positive impact on the region.
The successful completion of Koruson 2 demonstrates the potential for large-scale renewable energy projects to drive sustainable development and economic growth in South Africa. As the country continues to transition towards a cleaner energy mix, projects like Koruson 2 will play a crucial role in reducing emissions and supporting industrial growth. The collaboration between Envusa Energy, Anglo American, and EDF Power Solutions sets a positive precedent for future renewable energy initiatives.
Key points
- Koruson 2 renewable cluster adds 520 MW of clean power to South Africa's grid.
- The project reduces CO2 emissions by approximately 2.2 million tonnes annually.
- Koruson 2 created over 2,000 jobs and invested R70 million in local businesses during construction.
