November 20, 2024 - Senegal: South African renewable energy firm JUWI has secured €30 million in financing with Eramet Grande Côte for a 20 MW off-grid solar photovoltaic project, featuring 11 MWh of battery storage for the GCO mine in Senegal.
This hybrid solar project is expected to meet 20% of the mine's energy needs, reducing carbon emissions by 25,000 tons annually and creating over 100 jobs during construction and maintenance phases.
Richard Doyle, CEO of JUWI, emphasized the importance of sustainable mining technologies to mitigate environmental impacts, especially in regions where mining operations rely heavily on hydrocarbons due to limited electrical grid infrastructure.
In 2022, approximately 23 GW was allocated to mining projects in Africa, primarily in the sub-Saharan region. High costs and power outages from national grids hinder the sector's growth.
Decentralized renewable energy offers a viable alternative, providing affordable electricity that enhances the competitiveness of mining products. Reliable supply ensures operational continuity and minimizes losses from downtime. Additionally, the use of clean energy in production processes opens new markets for African mining products, aligning with increasing demand for sustainable products amid climate commitments.