Africa Data Centres and DPA SA have broken ground on their solar farm in the Free State. The first phase will see power getting wheeled to its CPT1 facility. The second phase will see power being supplied to JHB1 and JHB2 once wheeling agreements with relevant municipalities conclude.
This announcement forms a crucial component of the 20-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) inked in March 2023 with DPA Southern Africa a joint company of the French utility, EDF. The objective of the Free State farm is to furnish renewable energy to Africa Data Centres sites, commencing with its cutting-edge, carrier-neutral data centre in Cape Town, the CPT1 facility.
According to Cassava Technologies’ President and Group CEO, Hardy Pemhiwa, “This initiative positions Africa Data Centres as a trailblazer in the data center industry in responding to South Africa’s energy crisis through sustainable technology solutions. This is in line with a broader industry shift towards innovative, eco-friendly practices. The strategic use of solar power showcases technology’s role in pioneering solutions for energy challenges and environmental sustainability”.
This project is a key element of Africa Data Centers’ ambitious plans to emerge as the most sustainable colocation provider on the continent.