BESS tender price in South Africa 2025

Who is the preferred bidder for South Africa's 123 MW retreat Bess project?

In May 2025, South African independent power producer (IPP) Mulilo emerged as the preferred bidder across four of the sites: the 123 MW Retreat BESS project at the Merapi substation, with an evaluation price of R2 477.86/MWh.

What are the Bess projects in South Africa?

The Gainfar and Boitekong projects, located in the North West Province, will each have a capacity of over 300MWh. As South Africa continues to deal with frequent blackouts and load shedding, these BESS projects will help mitigate risks and contribute to the country’s energy security.

How will Bess projects impact South Africa's Energy Security?

As South Africa continues to grapple with frequent blackouts and load shedding, these BESS projects will help mitigate risks and contribute to the country’s energy security. The Gainfar Project will be connected to the Ngwedi substation, while the Boitekong Project will be connected to the Marang substation.

How much does a 123 MW Bess project cost?

the 123 MW Retreat BESS project at the Merapi substation, with an evaluation price of R2 477.86/MWh. Scatec, of Norway, prevailed with its 123 MW Haru BESS project at the Leander substation, with a R2 037.10/MWh evaluation price. All the projects will use lithium-ion battery technology.

What socio-economic commitments do South African contractors make?

The awarded bidders have made extensive socio-economic commitments: Black Shareholding: A minimum of 40% black ownership in project companies, 30% in construction contractors, and 42% in operations contractors. Job Creation: 852 job opportunities for South African citizens, measured in job-years, during both construction and operational phases.