JA Solar is now producing its high-efficiency DeepBlue 4.0 Pro modules locally in South Africa, the first batch of local modules exclusively supplied to the 216MW Hydra solar project, developed by TotalEnergies and constructed by Powerchina Huadong Engineering Corporation (HDEC).
This milestone marks the first local production of n-type PV modules in South Africa, a significant breakthrough in the country’s photovoltaic manufacturing capabilities. It also highlights JA Solar’s long-standing commitment to the country’s renewable energy goals and its broader economic development.
To meet the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy’s local content requirements under the Risk Mitigation Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP), JA Solar formed a strategic partnership with ARTsolar, South Africa’s premier PV module manufacturer, combining its cutting-edge n-type PV technology with ARTsolar’s local manufacturing expertise.
The two companies worked together to upgrade ARTsolar’s facility to a state-of-the-art 340MW production line, in the process overcoming multiple technical and operational challenges. From adapting equipment and production processes to training personnel, to securing product certification, to establishing new quality control and logistics systems, the road to local production required significant investment, coordination and dedication.
“This is more than a manufacturing achievement – it’s a strategic step forward for South Africa’s energy independence,” commented JA Solar Executive President Aiqing Yang. “We feel a sense of pride that the Hydra project will be powered by JA Solar modules made on South African soil. This successful localization effort shows our commitment to combining global innovation with local action, supporting the country’s clean energy goals and industrial growth.”
