Air Liquide and Sasol, leading players in the industrial gases and global chemicals sectors, have forged Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with Mainstream Renewable Power. These deals are strategic moves to decarbonize their operations in South Africa.
Under this agreement, they will spearhead the development of a 97.5 megawatt (MW) solar photovoltaic (PV) project in South Africa’s Free State province. This project will ensure a steady supply of renewable power to Sasol’s synthetic fuel manufacturing complex in Secunda. The Secunda facility, operated by Air Liquide, stands as the world’s largest oxygen production site.
According to a report by Energy Capital & Power, Nicolas Poirot, CEO of Air Liquide for Africa, the Middle East and India, shared his excitement about partnering with Sasol. “By securing a substantial amount of renewable energy generation capacity, we are taking a crucial step toward drastically reducing the carbon footprint of our Secunda operations and promoting renewable energy growth in South Africa,” he stated.
These PPAs demonstrate a deep commitment to renewable energy, encompassing a total capacity of around 580 MW. This effort aims to slash CO2 emissions from oxygen production at the Secunda site by 30% to 40% by 2031.
As a key component of these agreements, Mainstream Renewable Power will establish a local entity to build the 97.5 MW solar PV farm in the Free State province. The facility, set to commence operations in 2025, represents a major advancement in South Africa’s sustainable energy journey.
The partnership among Air Liquide, Sasol, and Mainstream Renewable Power not only signifies a drive to cut emissions but also reflects the increasing dedication of global industries to adopt clean energy solutions.
