Aurex is proud to share the successful completion of the mechanical works on the Graspan 75MW Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Project, delivered for ENGIE in the Northern Cape, South Africa.
This project is a significant milestone, demonstrating our ability to execute complex, utility-scale renewable energy projects under challenging conditions. From initial groundworks to the final module installation, the scope required detailed planning, technical accuracy, and strong on-site leadership.
The mechanical scope included the drilling, backfilling, ramming, and concreting of 20,760 piles. This was followed by the installation of 1,384 torque tubes and drive motor assemblies, 155,008 panel rails, and the mounting of 149,472 PV modules. These modules are now positioned to deliver clean, renewable energy into South Africa’s national grid.
One of the major challenges successfully overcome during construction was the coordination of concrete deliveries, with the nearest batching plant located over 70 kilometres away. This required consistent logistical precision to avoid delays and maintain quality standards.
Graspan adds 75MW of clean, reliable energy capacity to the national grid, directly supporting the country’s sustainability goals and contributing to the broader energy transition. For the local community, the impact has been equally meaningful. During peak construction, the project created employment opportunities for local labourers, tradespeople, and support staff, providing income and stimulating economic activity in the region. In addition to job creation, local workers gained exposure to renewable energy construction methods through on-the-job training, helping to build transferable skills for future infrastructure projects. The project also prioritised procurement from local small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) , injecting financial support into the community and small businesses.
Graspan’s environmental contribution is equally significant. The facility is expected to offset over 130,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions each year, the equivalent of planting more than 2 million trees or removing 28,000 vehicles from the road. The plant will generate approximately 180,000 megawatt-hours (MWh) of electricity annually, enough to power around 25,000 average households. To put it in perspective, that’s enough energy to charge approximately 22 billion smartphones, more than two for every person on the planet.
Aurex Constructors remains committed to delivering sustainable infrastructure that supports energy resilience, environmental responsibility, and economic growth. The Graspan project stands as a testament to what can be achieved through teamwork, technical excellence, and a shared vision for a cleaner future.
