JA Solar, Africa’s leading solar module supplier, has begun local production of its high-efficiency DeepBlue 4.0 Pro modules in South Africa. The first locally made batch is powering the 216MW Hydra solar project, developed by TotalEnergies and built by Powerchina Huadong Engineering Corporation.
This marks the first domestic production of n-type PV modules in South Africa — a major step forward in local photovoltaic manufacturing and a boost for the country’s clean energy goals.
To meet local content requirements under the REIPPPP, JA Solar partnered with ARTsolar, South Africa’s top PV module manufacturer. Together, they upgraded ARTsolar’s facility into a 340MW state-of-the-art production line. This collaboration overcame significant technical and logistical challenges, including equipment upgrades, staff training, certification, and quality control implementation.
“This is more than just a production milestone — it’s a strategic move toward South Africa’s energy independence,” said Aiqing Yang, Executive President of JA Solar.
Beyond supporting the Hydra project, the initiative strengthens South Africa’s solar value chain by reducing reliance on imports and creating local jobs. With support from local universities, ARTsolar’s expansion has already created 150 permanent positions, with more to come.
As South Africa moves toward becoming a top ten global solar market by 2030, JA Solar’s investment reflects its long-term commitment to regional energy transformation—blending Chinese PV innovation with African ambition for a cleaner, more self-sufficient future.
