Name of the Project
Naos-1 hybrid solar and battery project.

Location
Viljoenskroon, Free State, South Africa.

Project Owner/s
South African independent power producer SOLA Group.

Project Description
The Naos-1 project is a landmark 435 MWp solar PV and 660 MWh battery energy storage project, developed entirely by SOLA Group and underpinned by long-term, power purchase agreements with Sasol and Air Liquide.

Naos-1 is South Africa’s first private power plant to actively dispatch renewable energy to private end-users by the grid, using an innovative time-of-use contract structure that maximises buyer savings.

The main equipment consists of 88 283 tracker foundations, 6 506 tracker rows, 696 416 PV modules and 61 medium-voltage stations.  

Potential Job Creation
The project aims to create an estimated 650 jobs during the construction phase. 

Capital Expenditure
Not disclosed, however, Engineering News has reported that the Development Bank of Southern Africa is the largest senior debt financier, alongside Nedbank, RMB, Investec and Absa.

Planned Start/End Date
Construction started in February 2026 following financial close. Commercial operation is targeted for 2028.

Latest Developments
Access roads and fence line clearing are ongoing. Major equipment will start arriving on site from June 2026. Main mechanical activities are set to start in July 2026.  

Key Contracts, Suppliers and Consultants
SOLA Build and WBHO Construction joint venture; ABLON Construction (contractors) and Longi Solar; NEXTRACKER; Sungrow; and Envision (equipment suppliers).

Contact Details for Project Information
SOLA Group, tel +27 21 421 9764 or email info@solagroup.co.za