Patrice Motsepe’s solar project strikes a deal with Renergen

Following a tense legal battle, Springbok Solar and Renergen have reached an agreement that will see both companies operate their respective projects in the Free State.

The companies have set up clear protocols for ongoing communication and coordination, with Renergen’s Tetra4 retaining its exclusive rights over part of the region.

The Springbok Solar Power Plant is a development from the SOLA Group, which is 40% owned by billionaire businessman Patrice Motsepe.

Springbok Solar Project is a 195 MWp solar project that will add more than 435,000 MWh of clean energy to the South African grid.

Its dispute with Renergen dates back to 2024, when the gas producer expressed concerns regarding the ongoing construction of the Springbok Solar project in an area designated for future natural gas extraction.

Renergen claimed it holds a valid onshore petroleum Production Right granted in 2012 under the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act.

The company explained that new developments must obtain permission from the Petroleum Production Right holder to execute a co-existence agreement in the same area, which Renergen claimed Springbok never did.

The matter headed to court, with Renergen disputing the construction of the Springbok Solar project.

The Mineral Resources Department rejected this suspension application in November 2024, allowing the Springbok Project to continue construction.

However, Renergen appealed this decision, and in April 2025, the Director-General of the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMRP) ruled in favour of Renergen’s Tetra4.

This decision directed the parties to consult further and provide feedback to the DMRP Regional Manager within 30 days. After this, the Regional Manager would decide whether to approve the land surface use of the Springbok PV Project.

On Monday, 22 September, Renergen announced that it has reached an agreement with Springbok Solar that will see both projects continue.

The two companies formalised an agreement that will allow both Renergen’s Virginia Gas Project and the Springbok Solar Project to operate within the designated area.

Renergen explained that clear protocols have been defined for ongoing communication and operational coordination.

In addition, it said Tetra4 will retain the exclusive rights conferred to it within the Production Right outside of the agreed boundary of the Springbok Solar Project facility to explore and produce.

It added that both parties will continue to engage and consult in terms of all applicable legislation and regulation on any future development and expansion of both companies’ continued development in the Free State.

“This agreement closes a difficult chapter for both parties and clears a path forward built on collaboration and mutual respect,” Renergen CEO Stefano Marani said. 

“We look forward to working alongside Springbok Solar and any other parties wishing to co-exist on our production right to deliver energy security and economic growth for South Africa.”