Lukas Haack, Head of Engineering, Suntrace

AFRICA EVENT REPORT

POD 2 : MEETING ESG AND CLIMATE GOALS WITH HYBRID SOLUTIONS

BEST PRACTICE FOR IMPLEMENTING RENEWABLE PROJECTS FOR MINES IN AFRICA

Lukas Haack, Head of Engineering, Suntrace

Lukas Haack delivers a presentation on the stage-wise approach to successfully implement a renewable energy project at an African mine. Two valuable points at the outset. One, power supply is a quick win, because it has by far the largest carbon footprint, and renewable energies present the lowest hanging fruit to really start decarbonising mining operations. Two, renewables have become cost competitive and can also hedge against energy costs for future operations. Considering the current volatility in fuel prices, renewables present an opportunity for improved mine profitability, and in some cases they may even extend the life of mine due to lower electricity cost and open the option to explore lower grade resources. Haack: “And it’s a stage-wise approach. The way to net zero will be a long journey, and I say, let’s hit the road.” Haack takes us down the implementation process including project assessment, integration of the renewable energy project into the existing infrastructure, fixing cost estimates, the transaction structure (EPC, IPP or lease?), tendering, and selection of contractor.

Haack also showcases Suntrace’s success at the landmark B2Gold’s Fekola project in collaboration with BayWa r.e. The project has been in operation since July last year and continues to outperform expectations.