Multiplying benefits with hybrid projects MELODIE MICHEL REPORTER Energy and Mines
D
ave Manning, Director of Global Hybrid at juwi Renewable Energy, tells Energy and Mines about the company’s latest projects, how combined environmental and cost benefits are set to bring mining’s energy transition further, and what he expects the next milestones to be. Energy and Mines: What are the next steps for constructing the 13.6 MWp solar farm for APA at the Gruyere Gold Mine?
“By reprocessing waste rock and tailings to remove gold left behind after the initial mining process we reduce environmental impact while maintaining tailings dams.”
DAVE MANNING DIRECTOR OF GLOBAL HYBRID JUWI RENEWABLE ENERGY
14
Dave Manning: The EPC contact was recently signed and juwi is currently finalising design and procurement. On-site construction will commence in a few months for overall project completion by the end of the year. E&M: You are also realizing a solar project for Pan African Resources in South Africa. What makes this project special? DM: Three things stand out really. Firstly, the solar photovoltaic plant at the Evander Mines of Pan African Resources is one of the first projects in South Africa to move forward with a generation license for renewable energy. Secondly the 9.975 MW solar farm will provide an estimated 30% of the power needed by the Elikhulu Tailings Retreatment Plant and materially reduce electricity costs and carbon emissions by an estimated 26,000 tonnes per year. Thirdly as Kobus Loots, the CEO of Pan African Resources states: “By reprocessing waste rock and tailings to remove gold left behind after the initial mining process we reduce environmental impact while maintaining tailings dams.” I think this is a great example of a triple win and can be a blueprint for the future of mining: renewable energy, plus environmental improvement, ENERGY AND MINES MAGAZINE
