Mpact advances renewable energy goals

Under this agreement, Enpower Trading will supply 30GWh per annum of clean energy from SolarAfrica Energy’s SunCentral solar photovoltaic plant in De Aar, Northern Cape, powering Mpact’s Felixton, Mkhondo and Springs paper mills.

This collaboration marks a milestone in Mpact’s ongoing efforts to transition its manufacturing operations to renewable energy, furthering its commitment to reducing its environmental impact while securing reliable, sustainable power for its operations. The PPA is expected to help Mpact cut approximately 30 000 tons of CO2 emissions annually, reinforcing the company’s vision for a greener, more sustainable future.

‘Partnering with Enpower Trading is a clear demonstration of Mpact’s dedication to environmental stewardship and operational efficiency,’ says Bruce Strong, Mpact CEO. ‘Securing a consistent and reliable source of renewable energy allows us to reduce our carbon footprint while ensuring the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of our manufacturing facilities. This agreement aligns perfectly with our broader sustainability strategy and our commitment to embedding green practices across our operations.’

James Beatty, CEO of Enpower Trading, echoes the sentiment, noting the broader implications of the partnership. ‘We are proud to collaborate with Mpact, a leader in sustainable packaging and recycling. This PPA illustrates how strategic partnerships can accelerate the adoption of clean energy solutions in industrial sectors. Enpower Trading is committed to empowering businesses like Mpact to achieve their sustainability objectives while contributing to a resilient and environmentally responsible energy landscape in South Africa.’

Mpact’s adoption of renewable energy reflects its integrated approach to sustainability. The company operates 38 sites across South Africa, Namibia and Mozambique, including 21 manufacturing and 14 recycling facilities, employing more than 4 500 people. Its business model is built on closing the loop in plastic and paper packaging, leveraging recycling and beneficiation of recyclables to reduce environmental impact. In 2024 alone, Mpact collected over 588 000 tons of recyclable materials, spanning paper, plastics, glass, beverage cans and liquid board packaging.

Enpower Trading’s role in this agreement highlights its growing influence in the South African renewable energy sector. The company specialises in providing tailored renewable energy solutions for industrial and commercial clients, using innovative wheeling agreements and partnerships with leading renewable energy providers to facilitate sustainable energy adoption. By connecting large-scale energy users with renewable generation, Enpower Trading helps customers like Mpact transition towards cleaner, more reliable power sources.

This PPA between Mpact and Enpower Trading demonstrates how industrial players can actively reduce their carbon footprint while securing long-term operational efficiency and energy security. As South Africa continues to navigate its energy transition, collaborations such as this are setting a benchmark for sustainable industrial practices in the packaging and manufacturing sectors.