【SMM News Flash】 South Africa Clears Ekurhuleni to Procure 2,400 MW, Including 1,237 MW of Solar

October 19, EDP announced that subsidiary EDP Renewables had secured a long-term power purchase agreement with a global technology company for an Arkansas solar project rated at 250 MWac and 351 MWdc. EDP owns 71.4% of EDPR. Since July 2025, EDP has contracted 1.7 GW of new solar and battery-storage capacity in the United States, with electricity delivery expected during 2026–2028. The announcement did not identify the technology company or specify the contract duration.

October 19, Entergy Arkansas announced expanded service for Google’s West Memphis campus, proposing 1,000 MWh and 400 MWh battery systems and a power purchase agreement covering 440 MWac from Big Island Solar. Both batteries are expected online in 2028. The plan also includes expanding Galet substation and building two 230 kV transmission lines. Google will cover approximately $600 million in planned investment and the power purchase agreement. The expansion will be submitted to the Arkansas Public Service Commission, with service expected in 2028 subject to approval.

October 19, Gansu’s energy regulator revised medium- and long-term electricity trading rules, effective upon issuance. Time-block purchase limits use operating capacity, duration and existing net contracted volumes; sales cannot exceed corresponding net contracts. The previous annual-trading limit clause was deleted. Users with zero net contracted electricity from the following month through year-end may switch wholesale or retail status next month with their retailer’s agreement, settling charges in the nearest settlement cycle. Exiting participants must resolve outstanding contracts. Failure to complete account closure or transfer cited as the reason for exit constitutes exit without valid grounds.