Kulani Energy expands grid reach with Optipower deal

Kulani Energy has acquired key assets from Optipower, a business that previously operated under Murray & Roberts Limited, now in business rescue.

The transaction was completed through Kulani Energy’s subsidiary, OptiProjects, which focuses on power transmission, distribution and renewable energy infrastructure. 

The deal strengthens Kulani Energy’s role in engineering, procurement and construction at a time when South Africa is working to expand and modernise its electricity grid.

It also ensures that essential technical capacity remains in the market, rather than being lost during a period of strain in the construction sector. 

Kulani Energy, a wholly Black women-owned engineering and energy infrastructure firm, said the move will help it take on larger projects linked to national and regional energy needs.

The acquisition was concluded at the end of January 2026 while Murray & Roberts was in business rescue. 

By stepping in, the company preserved capabilities that have supported major infrastructure projects for years.

Optipower was previously among contractors approved on Eskom’s Panel A, linked to the utility’s planned 14,000-kilometre transmission rollout to 2030.

Strengthening grid delivery capacity 

OptiProjects will focus on delivering high-voltage transmission lines, substations and renewable energy developments, including solar and wind projects.

Kulani Energy has also brought back specialist staff, including project managers, construction managers and technical planners, helping retain scarce skills in a sector that has faced steady contraction. 

“South Africa’s grid expansion depends not only on capital investment, but on retaining experienced delivery teams with the ability to execute complex transmission projects,” said Thinga Nethanani, chief operating officer of Kulani Energy.

“This acquisition strengthens important execution capability in a constrained market and shows the role Kulani Energy can play in supporting national infrastructure.”

Backing from financial partners 

The acquisition was supported by funding from Differential Capital, which said it recognised the strategic role Kulani Energy can play as an operator and integrator of complex infrastructure assets.

The partnership also helps address a funding gap that often limits local construction firms from competing on large-scale projects. 

“Our confidence was driven by the experience, track record and disciplined execution of the Kulani Energy team,” said Vincent Anthonyrajah, CEO of Differential Capital.

“They identified and secured the key individuals required to stabilise and rebuild Optipower, positioning the business for steady delivery.” 

Anthonyrajah added that the company presented a long-term plan aimed at generating shareholder returns while strengthening local infrastructure capacity.

Regional growth opportunities 

With the added EPC capability, Kulani Energy has already been contracted to take part in a 100-megawatt solar photovoltaic project in Guinea valued at about R2.9 billion, pointing to growing demand beyond South Africa. 

“OptiProjects will operate as part of Kulani Energy’s broader platform strategy spanning professional services, EPC delivery, operations and maintenance, and investments,” Nethanani said.