The latest renewable energy news includes announcements on BluEnergy, Altaaqa Renewables, Vikram Solar, IBS Crafts, and others.
BluEnergy Begins Construction of R360 Million Solar Project in South Africa
South African renewable-energy company BluEnergy and development partner IBS Crafts have started construction of a 25.6 MWp photovoltaic project at the Springs Fresh Produce Market in Ekurhuleni. Announced October 23, the development represents an investment of approximately R360 million ($21.8 million). Solar modules will be installed across market rooftops and unused land. Electricity will be supplied to the City of Ekurhuleni under a 20-year power purchase agreement. Annual generation is estimated at approximately 40 GWh, equivalent to electricity consumption by around 6,000 households. The project is expected to avoid approximately 36,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually. Construction will support more than 100 jobs and increase municipal renewable-electricity procurement.
Altaaqa Renewables Secures Permits for 63 MW Solar and 80 MWh Battery Projects in Romania
Saudi Arabia-based Altaaqa Renewables has obtained construction authorisations for two hybrid solar and battery storage projects in Romania. Announced October 23, the Cuza Vodă developments have combined photovoltaic capacity of 63 MWp and approximately 80 MWh of battery storage. Cuza Vodă 1 comprises 28.3 MWp of solar capacity and an 8.94 MW/35.1 MWh battery system. Cuza Vodă 2 includes 34.7 MWp of solar generation and an 11.29 MW/45.13 MWh battery. The approvals were issued by Romania’s National Energy Regulatory Authority. Construction is expected to begin in Q1 2027, with both projects targeting commercial operation by the end of 2028. Investment value and electricity offtake arrangements remain undisclosed.
Vikram Solar Targets December Production at 9 GW Solar Cell Factory in Tamil Nadu
Indian photovoltaic manufacturer Vikram Solar has confirmed that its 9 GW N-type TOPCon solar cell manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu is scheduled to begin production in December 2026. The update was disclosed through a stock exchange filing on October 23. Located at Gangaikondan, the plant forms part of an approximately 200-acre integrated manufacturing campus. Vikram Solar already operates a 6 GW module manufacturing facility at the location. The company plans to expand cell capacity to 12 GW and establish a 9 GW ingot and wafer manufacturing facility by FY2029. The integrated complex is expected to support more than 2,000 direct and indirect jobs and strengthen domestic photovoltaic manufacturing.
