e-Commerce conglomerate Google has furthered its investment in renewable energy sector by allotting $12m funds for 96MW Jasper solar project in South Africa.
It is said to be a part of $26m investment secured by the developers and investors SolarReserve, Intikon Energy and the Kensani Group. It is said to be the first investment of the company in the African nation.
The solar photovoltaic plant in the Northern Cape Province is also backed by Rand Merchant Bank, the Public Investment Corporation, Development Bank of South Africa and the PEACE Humansrus Trust.
Google Energy & Sustainability director Rick Needham remarked that South African has potential resources and supportive policies for renewable energy growth, making it an attractive place to invest.
"While today South Africa is primarily dependent on fossil fuels, there’s lots of potential for renewable energy — it’s a country blessed with abundant wind and solar resources — and the government has set an ambitious goal of generating 18 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy by 2030," added Needham.
Google had earlier announced that it outlined plans to invest nearly $1bn into renewable energy initiatives, and it is currently seeking additional opportunities, having made its mark in the US, Europe and Africa.