Multibillion-Rand Renewable Energy Portfolio Set to Transform Khuma and Matlosana
- Karen Scheepers
- 3 hours ago
- 2 min read
A massive shift toward renewable energy is underway in the City of Matlosana as several multibillion-rand solar and energy storage projects move into their implementation phases. These developments, including the Project Naos PV plant and the Mulilo Battery Energy Storage Project, are being positioned as a primary solution to the regional challenges of unemployment and energy insecurity.
The initiative involves a strategic partnership between the municipality and four major global developers: Mulilo, Scatec, OPEG, and the SOLA Group (represented by Letsatsi ED Holdings). Collectively, these investments represent one of the most significant renewable energy portfolios ever secured within the North West Province.
Economic Impact and Local Employment
The scale of the investment is substantial, with the Mulilo project alone earmarked for a R4.5 billion investment. This specific development is expected to create over 2,000 jobs, providing a significant boost to the local economy.
While the construction phase for many of these projects, such as the Naos PV plant, is estimated to last approximately 18 months, there is a strong emphasis on long-term benefits. Local leaders and municipal officials have advocated for:
Skills Development: Training programs for youth and residents over the age of 35 to ensure employability beyond the initial construction phase.
SMME Integration: Creating dedicated channels for local small, medium, and micro enterprises to secure sub-contracts and service agreements.
Socio-Economic Development: Long-term funding for community programs and infrastructure.
Recruitment and Database Registration
To ensure fair access to these opportunities, the municipality and developers have established several registration centers. These hubs are designed to collect a comprehensive database of local labor and business profiles.
Registration Locations:
Khuma Stadium
Khuma Taxi Rank (near the Police Station)
Phil Masinga Stadium
Stilfontein Library
Prospective employees are required to provide certified ID copies, proof of residence, and qualifications. Businesses must submit full compliance documentation, including CIPC registration, tax clearance, and BBBEE certificates.
Community Mobilization and Engagement
The scale of these projects has triggered a strong response from the local population. On Tuesday, 03 February 2026, the Executive Mayor, Cllr Fikile Mahlophe, addressed the community of Kanana following a march to the municipal headquarters.
Residents delivered a memorandum expressing their concerns regarding the fair distribution of opportunities from the Letsatsi solar plant project. The gathering underscored the community's demand that the economic benefits, ranging from short-term labor to permanent technical roles, be prioritized for those living in the immediate vicinity of the township. In response, the municipality reiterated its commitment to transparency through a newly established Project Stakeholder Steering Committee to monitor developer compliance.
Governance and Transparency Measures
The Steering Committee is tasked with ensuring that developer commitments are honored and that opportunities reach communities fairly. This body includes a broad range of stakeholders:
Representative from the Office of the Executive Mayor and Municipal Manager
The Local Economic Development (LED) Directorate
Local Business Forums and Ward Councillors
Community representatives and the developers themselves
Despite previous administrative challenges, the City has signaled that Matlosana is "open for business" and is utilizing these energy projects to restore investor confidence.
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