Sasol and Air Liquide Inaugurate Damlaagte PV for Industrial Decarbonisation

Project Overview

The Damlaagte PV Facility, a 97.5-megawatt solar power plant, has been officially inaugurated. It supplies renewable electricity to Sasol Secunda Operations, where Air Liquide operates the largest oxygen production site. This facility is the first to come online under Sasol and Air Liquide's 900 MW joint renewable energy procurement program.

Decarbonisation Goals

The initiative supports Air Liquide's aim to reduce CO₂ emissions from its Secunda operations by 30% to 40% by 2031 and contributes to Sasol's 2030 target of securing up to 2 GW of renewable energy. The Damlaagte PV Facility is expected to generate approximately 270 million kilowatt-hours of clean electricity annually.

Construction and Employment

Construction of the Damlaagte PV Facility began in November 2023 and achieved commercial operation in August 2025. The project created nearly 2,000 jobs, with a focus on local recruitment from nearby communities such as Tumahole, Schonkenville, and Vredefort. Local procurement and enterprise development were emphasized, ensuring meaningful participation by local businesses.

Skills Development

A dedicated skills development program provided training to over 150 community members, enhancing the project's socio-economic contribution. This initiative leaves a lasting legacy of skills and opportunities, enabling participants to seek employment on other renewable energy construction sites in the region.

Operational Management

The operation and maintenance of the facility will be managed by Plus MAMSA (Mainstream Asset Management SA) and its O&M partner, Power China Maanda JV. The Damlaagte PV Facility is a significant step toward achieving lower carbon intensity across Sasol's operations and advancing South Africa's industrial decarbonisation goals.