Saudi Arabia’s ACWA power achieves key output at Redstone, moving closer to full 100 MW capacity for carbon-free energy in South Africa

Saudi utility giant ACWA Power has marked a significant milestone by reaching 50 megawatts (MW) of energy generation at its Redstone Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) plant in South Africa. This achievement brings the facility halfway to its full design capacity of 100 MW, positioning it as a cornerstone in the region’s transition to sustainable energy.

In an official statement, ACWA Power—which is 50 per cent owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund—emphasised its commitment to delivering clean energy across Africa. Once Redstone is fully operational, the plant is expected to supply carbon-free electricity to approximately 200,000 households, with a positive impact on South Africa’s carbon footprint.

The Redstone CSP project is ACWA Power’s latest step in its African growth strategy, which has seen the firm establish itself as a top private investor in the continent’s renewable energy sector. Strategic partnerships with Herlogas and SEPCOIII have been instrumental in connecting Redstone to South Africa’s national grid, enhancing ACWA Power’s influence in the African energy market.

ACWA Power CEO Marco Arcelli highlighted the company’s approach to sustainable energy development, noting, “Our investments in Africa embody our commitment to sustainable growth through strategic partnerships and advanced technology. ACWA Power is not only a financial leader but also a partner committed to advancing Africa’s renewable energy landscape.” Arcelli underscored that ACWA Power’s African projects aim to foster positive social change by investing in economically viable, sustainable energy solutions.

In another notable achievement, ACWA Power’s Kom Ombo Photovoltaic plant in Egypt recently reached its full operational capacity of 200 MW. This solar facility now provides clean energy to over 200,000 Egyptian households, underscoring ACWA Power’s ongoing commitment to expanding its renewable energy footprint across Africa. These accomplishments are part of a broader vision to triple ACWA Power’s business scale, a goal the company set in 2023 as it accelerates its global expansion.

The company’s dedication to Africa is evidenced by its active investments, currently totalling $7 billion across the continent. These projects span not only solar power but also initiatives in green hydrogen, energy storage, and water desalination. As Arcelli noted, ACWA Power’s involvement goes beyond energy generation; the firm also supports clean water access and green hydrogen solutions that promise to reshape Africa’s infrastructure and improve the quality of life in local communities.

ACWA Power’s growing influence in Africa’s green hydrogen sector reflects a commitment to innovation. Recent agreements with both Egyptian and Tunisian authorities mark ACWA Power’s first steps towards building robust green hydrogen capabilities in Africa, as it aims to leverage the continent’s renewable resources for hydrogen production. ACWA Power’s flagship NEOM Green Hydrogen Project in Saudi Arabia is scheduled to come online in 2026 and is anticipated to reduce hydrogen production costs, making green hydrogen a more accessible alternative for industrial applications worldwide.

Alongside its renewable energy operations, ACWA Power has achieved record-breaking efficiency in water desalination, with the company currently holding the world’s lowest levelised water tariff. This accomplishment aligns with its goal to expand access to affordable and clean water, especially in Africa, where the need for reliable water resources is acute. By combining desalination and renewable energy, ACWA Power is actively supporting communities that are vulnerable to water scarcity, creating a sustainable solution for African households.

With a portfolio now boasting 65 gigawatts of managed capacity worldwide, ACWA Power remains at the forefront of global utility innovation. The company’s ability to produce energy, water, and potentially green hydrogen at industry-low costs positions it as a key player in making sustainable energy solutions both affordable and accessible across emerging markets.

As it progresses towards the full capacity of the Redstone CSP plant, ACWA Power is set to reinforce its standing as a leader in Africa’s energy landscape, helping drive the continent’s transition to a cleaner, more resilient future. Through continued strategic investments and partnerships, ACWA Power is not only expanding its business but also setting a standard for responsible, forward-thinking development that supports the communities it serves.