University of Pretoria and ATTSolar Sign 25-Year Renewable Energy Partnership

The University of Pretoria (UP) has partnered with ATTSolar Proprietary Limited to develop a new 10.5 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) facility that will supply clean and reliable electricity to UP’s Hatfield and Hillcrest campuses. ATTSolar is a joint venture between Atterbury Group, Fledge Capital, and MPower Investment.

The long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), which spans 25 years, marks a major step forward in UP’s commitment to sustainability and energy security. The solar facility will be built on unused UP-owned land in Persequor Park at the intersection of the N1 and N4 highways. The project received Environmental Authorisation in October 2025 and is expected to become operational within 12 months of signing.

Once running, the plant will generate renewable electricity which will meet a substantial amount of the energy needs of the Hatfield and Hillcrest campuses. Power will be supplied directly to the Lynnwood Substation, helping stabilise the university’s electricity supply.

ATTSolar will build and operate the solar plant and related infrastructure, while UP will benefit from long-term, low-cost renewable energy. The initiative also aligns with national priorities to expand renewable energy generation and reduce the country’s carbon emissions.

“This partnership represents an important milestone in building a more sustainable and resilient future for the University of Pretoria,” said Prof Francis Petersen, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of UP. “As a leading institution of higher learning, we recognise our responsibility to reduce our environmental impact and to model solutions that support South Africa’s energy transition. The project will strengthen our energy resilience, support academic excellence, and benefit our students and staff by ensuring a more stable and cost-effective power supply.”

Louis van der Watt, CEO of Atterbury Group, highlighted the broader significance of the collaboration. “This project is a powerful example of how universities and the private sector can work together to deliver shared value. By putting university-owned land to productive use, we are able to create a solution that benefits both the institution and the wider community.”

“For the university, the partnership means access to electricity at a cost lower than municipal rates, along with a stable and uninterrupted supply. This will reduce operational risks and significantly cut spending on generators and fuel. Importantly, producing power in this way will also reduce UP’s carbon footprint by more than 30%, contributing to a greener, more sustainable campus.”

Van der Watt added: “For Atterbury, this investment reflects our commitment to innovative energy infrastructure and long-term economic resilience. It also shows how partnerships between business and higher education can shape the future—bringing together shared expertise, shared resources, and shared purpose to create meaningful impact.”