Pan African Resources has provided an update on its renewable energy initiatives, specifically regarding the 8.75 MWAC Barberton Mines’ Fairview solar facility and a power purchase agreement (PPA) with Sturdee Energy for a 40 MW wheeled renewable energy solution.
The company’s CEO, Cobus Loots, emphasized the significance of these projects in achieving sustainability targets and reducing carbon emissions.
At its Barberton Mines’ Fairview operation the company has signed an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) agreement with JUWI Renewable Energies to build a solar PV renewable energy facility with a capacity of 8.75 MWAC.
This facility is projected to deliver cost savings of around ZAR26 million in the first year and an average of R40 million per year throughout its operational lifespan.
Additionally, it is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 22,000 tons per year.
Pan African has also entered a 10-year PPA with Sturdee Energy Pty Ltd for a 40 MW wheeled renewable energy supply from Sturdee Energy’s Bela-Bela Project solar facility in Limpopo to any of Pan African’s operations.
The gold producer is also working on expanding its Evander Mines’ solar PV facility and conducting a feasibility study for a solar PV facility at the Mogale Tailings Retreatment Plant.
After the effective execution of these initiatives and considering initial feasibility assessments, Pan African anticipates producing around 28% of its power needs from renewable energy.
This transition is estimated to result in a total annual reduction of approximately 137,000 tons of CO2 emissions and potential cost savings of up to ZAR154 million for the company. These projections are based on the current estimated Eskom tariffs and anticipated future price hikes.
JUWI was also the EPC contractor for the company’s Evander Mines’ utility-scale, grid-tied solar PV plant of 10 MWAC (12MWP) capacity commissioned in May 2022, making Pan African the first South African mining company to achieve this milestone.
Source: Mining Review Africa
Image Source: Pan African