Africa’s Largest Battery Energy Storage Project Kicks Off: Red Sands Project Marks a New Era for Clean Energy in South Africa
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Coolienergy Powers Africa’s Energy Future with 15 Years of Expertise and Large-Scale Storage Solutions
The energy transition in Africa has reached a major milestone with the official launch of the Red Sands 153MW/612MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in South Africa. As the largest standalone battery energy storage power station in Africa, the project represents a breakthrough in enhancing grid efficiency, alleviating power shortages, and accelerating the shift toward sustainable energy across the continent.
Located about 100 kilometers southeast of Upington in the Northern Cape Province, the Red Sands project is part of South Africa’s first Battery Energy Storage Independent Power Producer Procurement Program (BESIPPPP). It includes the construction of a state-of-the-art BESS station, booster station, switching station, substation, and transmission infrastructure. Once completed, it will play a key role in optimizing the national energy structure and strengthening grid reliability.
At the launch ceremony in Johannesburg, more than 40 representatives from key stakeholders—including project owner Globeleq, EPC consortium CEEC–CGGC–DAVHA, supervising firm Fichtner, grid design partner ESP, subcontractor Tractionel, and battery supplier Sungrow—gathered to mark the start of full-scale implementation.
The Globeleq Project Director emphasized the importance of the Red Sands project, calling it a “stabilizing anchor” for South Africa’s power system. He noted that the project will significantly improve grid regulation, secure power supply, and support the integration of renewable energy sources.
The EPC consortium shared detailed plans for project management, construction, and quality control. Relying on extensive international experience and advanced technical expertise, the consortium aims to deliver a world-class benchmark project for South Africa’s energy future.
A notable feature of the Red Sands project is its use of CALB’s independently developed 314Ah Gen2.0 battery cells, offering long cycle life, high efficiency, and superior safety performance meeting international standards.
Coolienergy: Professional Partner for Large-Scale Commercial & Industrial Energy Storage
As projects like Red Sands drive Africa’s renewable transition, reliable technology partners are key to success. Coolienergy, a professional energy storage solutions provider with 15 years of industry experience, specializes in large-scale commercial and industrial battery systems ranging from 86kWh to 5MWh.
The company holds comprehensive international certifications, operates with a dedicated R&D team, and provides end-to-end expert guidance—from project design to installation and operation. Coolienergy’s 24/7 pre-sale and after-sale service team ensures that every client receives professional, timely support to keep their systems running safely and efficiently.
With its proven technology, engineering expertise, and customer-first service model, Coolienergy stands ready to support Africa’s growing demand for reliable, sustainable energy storage solutions—empowering projects like Red Sands and many more across the continent.
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