South African renewable energy developer and independent power producer Mulilo has reached financial close on the Hartebeesfontein Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project. The 77 MW / 308 MWh facility, located near Klerksdorp in the City of Matlosana Local Municipality, North West Province, marks a significant step forward in the country’s energy storage programme rollout.
The Hartebeesfontein BESS project was awarded to Mulilo under Bid Window 2 of the Battery Energy Storage Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (BESIPPPP). The renewable energy developer secured five of the eight projects awarded in the tender.
The Hartebeesfontein BESS project is Mulilo’s second renewable energy project to be executed within the municipality, which is strategically located near Eskom’s Hermes Main Transmission Substation (MTS).
“As our fifth project to reach financial close in 2026, it reflects the hard work, expertise, and commitment of the Mulilo team, together with our valued partner the Reatile Group and stakeholders,” said Jan Fourie, CEO of Mulilo.
“Hartebeesfontein will help strengthen grid stability and support the continued growth of renewable energy, demonstrating the important role of collaboration in advancing South Africa’s energy transition,” added Fourie.
Collaborative efforts got Hartebeesfontein BESS project to close
Mulilo noted that the financial close of the Hartebeesfontein BESS project was achieved through strong collaboration between the public and private sectors. Key partners included the Department of Electricity and Energy, the Independent Power Producer Office (IPPO), NTCSA, and Eskom, as well as Mulilo’s shareholders, Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) and Norfund.
Financing is being provided by Absa, Standard Bank and Nedbank, with legal and advisory support from ENS, Bowmans, Fasken, PepperTree Capital, Marsh and Arup.
“Reaching financial close on this project is more than a project milestone — it is a tangible demonstration of what South Africa Inc. can achieve when capital, policy and execution align,” said Reatile Group’s Chief Commercial Officer, Sunette Smith.
“With our partner, Mulilo, securing five projects awarded under Bid Window 2, our partnership realises a systematic build-out of the backbone infrastructure South Africa needs to unlock its renewable energy future. We are proud to stand alongside that ambition,” concluded Smith.
