The Trust was set up by De Aar Solar Power as part of the government’s Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer (REIPP) programme to help address South Africa’s electricity shortage.

It owns 8% of the De Aar plant through its trust company and receives a share of profits as dividends. Initially, most of this income went toward repaying loans used to buy the share. These were fully settled in 2019, allowing the Trust to fund more community projects. It operates independently and is governed by appointed trustees to ensure responsible management.