"Oversight concerns deepen as allegations mount around labour violations at Engie led Oya solar hybrid project in South Africa", Green Building Africa, 23 April 2026

South Africa’s renewable energy sector is facing renewed pressure as serious allegations emerge around the Oya Energy Hybrid Facility [...].

The Oya project, a 128 MW dispatchable renewable facility located between Ceres and Sutherland, has been positioned as a landmark development combining 155 MW of solar PV, 86 MW of wind and a 94 MW or 242 MWh battery energy storage system. Backed by a consortium led by ENGIE [...]. The primary EPC contractors are Power China and Synohydro.

[...] the project is now at the centre of controversy following investigative reporting by News24 journalist Ethan van Diemen, which details a series of alleged compliance breaches linked primarily to on-site construction activities.

Among the most serious claims are accusations that Sinohydro employed undocumented Chinese workers without valid permits, raising concerns about illegal imported labour practices.

Reports further suggest that some workers have been subjected to poor living conditions and limited access to protections under South African labour law.

At least seven workers reportedly died in a vehicle accident associated with project logistics, while additional incidents remain under investigation. [...] Claims of sexual harassment on site have added to the severity of the situation [...].

Community members in the Karoo region have reported damage to local infrastructure, particularly roads impacted by heavy construction traffic, alongside concerns about adherence to environmental authorisations.