Energy

Each of the 10 mtu gensets has a rated power of 2,500kW and an operational lifetime of up to 84,000 hours before needing major overhaul. (Image source: Rolls-Royce)

Rolls-Royce, a developer of complex power and propulsion solutions for safety-critical applications, has commissioned ten mtu gas gensets for the Egyptian Wood Technology Company’s (WOTECH) production plant

The plant is located in northern Egypt and produces medium-density fibreboard (MDF) from rice straw for use in furniture and buildings. The plant avoids the usual practice of burning rice straw, which is a by-product of rice cultivation, and ensures its sustainable use by repurposing it into MDF. The factory is the second of its kind in the world and the first in Africa.

As the facility has no access to the public grid, it relies on the 20-cylinder mtu gas gensets which have a collective output of 25MW. Rolls-Royce worked with local partner Engineering for Industries Co. (INDE) and the Egyptian Maintenance Company (EMC) to supply the mtu Series 4000 L64 FNER gensets, controls and accessories for the WOTECH project, which was established with full Egyptian capital from the oil sector.

“When supporting a project such as the WOTECH facility, where there is no access to the grid utility, the dependability of our mtu gas-powered gensets is paramount,” commented Tobias Ostermaier, president stationary power solutions at Rolls-Royce. “Working with INDE and EMC, we were able to deliver a power solution that met all the customer requirements - being efficient, reliable and offering the combination of best-in-class power density with low emissions.”

Both projects will deliver essential power, energy, and ancillary services to Eskom through 15-year Power Purchase Agreements. (Image source: AMEA Power)

Fast-growing renewable energy company, AMEA Power, has been awarded two major standalone battery energy storage projects (BESS) in South Africa

The Gainfar and Boitekong projects were awarded through Big Window 2 of BESIPPPP and are located in the North West Province. Each will have a capacity of more than 300MWh and are seen as vital to ensuring Eskom’s grid stability. The Gainfar Project will be connected to the Ngwedi substation, while the Boitekong Project will be connected to the Marang substation.

“This achievement marks a major milestone for AMEA Power, as we continue to expand our footprint in South Africa, a key market for us,” remarked Hussain Al Nowais, chairman of AMEA Power. “These projects represent our first successful awards of BESS projects, through a competitive bidding process and underscore our commitment to providing sustainable, resilient and cost-effective energy solutions.

"We are proud to support South Africa’s energy transition, enhance Eskom’s grid reliability, and drive economic growth in the region. With our expanding portfolio, including the 120MW Doornhoek Solar PV project, and our regional office in Johannesburg, we are dedicated to contributing to cleaner, more sustainable energy future for South Africa.”

This announcement follows soon after AMEA Power celebrated Africa’s largest solar energy plant becoming operational in Egypt. Discover the full story by clicking here.

Comapire takes over from Seco Power. (Image source: Perkins)

Perkins, a global power systems powerhouse, has appointed Comapire as its new authorised distributor in Morocco

Replacing Seco Power in the country, Compaire was selected due to its extensive industrial engines experience, strong knowledge of the territory and proven customer relationships. Led by managing director Yassine Tabout, the wider Comapire team has worked with the Perkins brand in the country for more than 30 years.

“The Comapire team is very excited to be taking on this appointment,” remarked Tabout. “We are looking forward to delivering our portfolio of service and support solutions to help Perkins-powered customers throughout Morocco. Customers will benefit from our highly trained technicians, our infrastructure set up and our extensive experience with industrial engines.”

This team will now be bolstered by the addition of a newly appointed service manager who will lead the service department overseeing technical support, coordinating field service technicians and service product support representatives.

Jaz Gill, vice president of global sales, marketing, service and parts at Perkins, added, “I’m very pleased our Perkins-powered customers in Morocco will be supported by Comapire going forward. I’m confident that Perkins end users will receive an exceptional level of service and support, as Comapire’s highly experienced team have worked with engines for many years. The investment they have made in their new facility in Casablanca, coupled with their geographical reach and proven customer engagement will serve them well.”

Eskom anticipates Koeberg’s enhanced performance will be fully realised in FY26. (Image source: Eskom)

Eskom, the South African electricity public utility, has synchronised Unit 2 of the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station in Cape Town to the national grid following a long-term operation (LTO) programme designed to extend its operational lifespan

Unit 2 contributes 930MW to the energy grid and is (alongside Unit 1) therefore considered vital to the country’s future energy security. With this in mind, Eskom undertook the LTO programme in order to ensure the safe and efficient performance of Unit 2 at the facility, helping to increase its operational lifespan by 20 years. The LTO programme included the replacement of three steam generations, inspections, and refuelling activities and follows the successful completion of a similar programme on Unit 1 in 2023.

“While projects like the LTO programme necessitate a higher initial upfront investment, the long-term benefits – including decades of affordable, low-carbon energy – make them indispensable,” said Eskom’s group chief executive, Dan Marokane. “Koeberg exemplifies how nuclear power can align economic and environmental priorities to create a sustainable energy future. Through the successful execution of the LTO project, our Koeberg team has once more demonstrated the exceptional skills we have to support our country’s nuclear ambitions.”

Units 1 and 2 of the Koeberg facility will supply 1,860MW to the grid, representing an approximate 5% of South Africa’s total electricity.

Cutting out coal

“By forming strategic collaborations with international designers, suppliers, and industry leaders, Koeberg has established itself as a hub for nuclear innovation,” remarked group executive for generation, Bheki Nxumalo. “These partnerships are anticipated to be crucial as South Africa explores advanced nuclear technologies, such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). This could position the country as a leader in cutting-edge nuclear solutions while continuing to build and maintain a skilled nuclear workforce.

“As South Africa phases out some of the aging coal-fired power plants by 2030, nuclear energy is poised to provide a reliable and stable baseload supply. Unlike intermittent renewable sources, nuclear power ensures continuous electricity generation, meeting the needs of both residential and industrial users. Its ability to produce carbon-free energy also supports South Africa’s climate goals by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”