ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY News & Analysis
APRIL, 2022
MINING IN AFRICA
The Briefing and Analysis of RDJ Consulting (NAMIBIA) Windhoek, Namibia
News & Analysis
From The Editor Did You Know?
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Economy at Large
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Oil & Gas
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Mining
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Electricity Renewable Energy Water The Environment Roads & Transport ICT & Telecommunications Youth In Action Women In Industry Tenders and Careers Contributing Authors
C ONT E NT S
ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY
APR 2022
FROM THE EDITOR RDJ Publishing (Pty) Ltd is the publishing home of the RDJ Briefing, written and authored through the collaboration with RDJ Consulting Services CC (www.rdjconsulting.co.za).
PO Box 23738 Windhoek, NAMIBIA
Telephone +264 81 750 3010 EMAIL briefing@rdjpublishing.africa WEBSITE www.rdjpublishing.africa
RDJ Consulting Services CC is an advisory consultancy to the Energy, Water and Transport Sectors with a focus on sustainable operations and renewable energy.
Here’s to Mining and Good Health! Dear Reader, This month gives me the greatest pleasure yet in many aspects as not only is it my birthday but the RDJ Briefing magazine comes of age as it is officially launched. Further, as we must acknowledge, we join the United Nations in observing the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action. Given the socio-economic value that the mining industry adds upon a nation, we have dedicated this edition to cover different aspects of mining with an international focus. This edition reveals the underrated opportunity in wastewater purification in mines and reveals to you advanced technologies such as that under way by Trevali Mining and its stated potential for impact on the zinc and copper mining industry globally. Furthermore, Women in Industry brings you an RDJ Briefing exclusive interview with the President of the Women in Mining Association in Namibia – Ms. Zenzi Awases, who shares her insights on the experience as a woman in a maledominated industry, and touches base on the importance of mineworker’s health and wellbeing. The rest of the magazine looks at the United Arab Emirates (UAE) green energy commitment to attain a carbon net zero status by 2050, while
Light Systems Namibia has grown beyond its local borders and successfully taken renewable energy technology to Botswana. Rounding off electricity matters, we now have sight of the latest National Integrated Resource Plan (NIRP) through the public stakeholder engagement workshop. And so after almost 60 publications, RDJ Publishing (Pty) Ltd. will officially take the reins and Launch the RDJ Briefing Publication in Windhoek, Namibia on the 11th of April 2022. Hope you caught it but if not, please visit our social media pages. To find out more, please enjoy your reading. Do stay safe and feel free to comment, compliment, share and subscribe via email if you are a new reader at briefing@rdjpublishing.africa or reach me directly editor@rdjpublishing.africa
WATCH THIS SPAE Enjoy, #Stay Safe and a happy 2022 to you….
(David A. Jarrett) Editor
Authors RDJ Interns*
This report is a FREE Publication and was prepared by RDJ Consulting Services CC based in Windhoek, Namibia. The content is collected from publicly available information and so its accuracy cannot be guaranteed.
? w o n k u o y d i D Did you know that zinc is the fourth most widely consumed metal after iron, aluminium, and copper and is also vital to the human body for proper function and health? Courtesy: Skorpion Zinc-Vedanta Zinc International
Quick Facts 1. The body needs zinc for the immune system to work properly. Low levels of zinc can increase the risk of infections, such as pneumonia. 2. Zinc supports normal growth and development during pregnancy, childhood, and adolescence and is required for proper sense of taste and smell.
3. Zinc plays a role in maintaining healthy skin. It plays a role in every stage of wound healing, skin repair, preventing infection and healing acne. 4. Zinc has antioxidant properties which aids in reducing oxidative stress which is linked to chronic disease. 5. Oysters are the best source of zinc. However, red meat, poultry, beans and nuts are also good sources of zinc.
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APRIL , 2022
ECONOMY AT LARGE Mining and Economies in Africa AUTHOR: Chilombo (Olga) Priscila Economist @ RDJ Consulting
Source - World Mining Data (WMD) 2021
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he African continent is well known for its abundance in natural resources and is one of the most important mining regions in the world, producing significant quantities of platinum, copper, iron ore, uranium, diamonds, gold, and other important mineral commodities to satisfy the world’s thirst for growth. Africa is home to about 30 per cent of the world’s total mineral reserves and a significant share of the global production of economically important minerals and metals. The International Energy Agency (IEA) reported in 2019 that Africa produces about 80% of the total world supply of platinum, 50% of manganese, 66% of cobalt, and a significant amount of chromium. In many sub-Saharan African countries, the mining sector makes an important contribution to foreign exchange earnings, government revenues, employment, gross
domestic product, investment, and infrastructure development. In South Africa for example, the Johannesburg-Pretoria metropolitan area, which serves as the region's economic and financial hub, developed because of the local gold supply and is often referred to as “Egoli” or the “City of Gold”. Further benefits brought by investment through mining to local communities include: Job creation; sector education/awareness; development of new local businesses; Corporate social responsibility activities; Service delivery such as access to roads, water supply, electricity, sanitation, health and other such infrastructure upgrades; Clearly, the mining and natural resources sector is critical in driving economic growth and development on the continent.
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Source - World Mining Data (WMD) 2021
In the face of a push towards sustainable energy, the demand for the needed minerals is expected to increase substantially due to their use in the production of batteries, wind turbines, and solar energy. Also, given the challenges presented by global climate change to the mining industry, investors can take this as an opportunity to benefit from increased global demand for minerals required in clean energy production. In fact, over the past decade, Africa’s mining sector has proved resilient to adverse conditions in the global economy, such as the financial crisis of 2007-8 and the decline in world commodity prices since 2014, even if the COVID-19 pandemic has recently exacerbated the forward pressure on commodity prices. In 2020, the Africa Development Bank had an Economic Brief for Africa in which discussions were based on the topic “Covid-19 and gold mining in Africa - Turning Challenges into Opportunities”. During this brief, it was revealed that most base metals and precious minerals have experienced sharp price declines because of demand side shocks when pandemic-related shutdowns started, except for gold. The positive change seen in the price of Gold between January and April 2020 occurred because of its perceived value as a safe-haven asset, indicating the great and continued economic value of mining precious minerals.
So, what could be so bad? As good as being a mineral-rich country may sound to be, the fact is that many of the mineral-rich economies of Africa risk becoming permanently dependent on mining. In some countries, minerals constitute more than 50% of total merchandise exports. For example, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) reported in 2020 that minerals and metals accounted for
92% of total merchandise exports from Botswana between 2013 and 2017, and 81% of total merchandise exports from the Democratic Republic of Congo during the same time period. Given the opportunities created through the push to green and clean energy, and the availability of natural resources yet to be explored in Africa, could Africa be missing an opportunity? Is it time for Africa to begin adding more value to its mining industry? Or are miningrich African countries being too dependent on their resources? The conversation continues briefing@rdjpublishing.africa.
Readings: https://reliefweb.int/report/world/africas-mineral-economiesbreaking-their-dependencemining#:~:text=In%20many%20sub%2DSaharan%20African,to%20 be%20dependent%20on%20mining World Bank. 2019. Digging Beneath the Surface: An Exploration of the Net Benefits of Mining in Southern Africa. World Bank, Washington, DC. © World Bank. http://hdl.handle.net/10986/32107 https://www.world-miningdata.info/wmd/downloads/PDF/WMD2021.pdf https://www.npc.gov.na/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/The-Impactof-Mining-sector-to-the-Namibia-economy-FINAL.pdf https://www.sadc.int/themes/economicdevelopment/industry/mining/ Other Readings https://www.energyst.com/uk/mining-african-economies/ https://www.jstor.org/stable/718141 chromeextension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/viewer.html? pdfurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ifc.org%2Fwps%2Fwcm%2Fconnect %2F14d1fb8c-8d63-47c9-acb735b20a488ff2%2FSustainable%2BMining%2Bin%2BAfrica.pdf%3FM OD%3DAJPERES%26CVID%3DknWL6Rr&chunk=true chromeextension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/viewer.html? pdfurl=https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.africaportal.org%2Fdocuments%2 FPP-10-21-Landry-Signe_1.pdf&clen=434114&chunk=true
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OIL & GAS 2022 APRIL FUEL PRICES NAMIBIA
N$ 19.10 per litre 95 Octane Unleaded Petrol
N$ 20.23 per litre Diesel 50ppm
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APRIL, 2022
MINING Africa’s Treasures AUTHOR: David Jarrett Managing Consultant @ RDJ Consulting
The Kibali Mine - DRC. Courtesy: Barrick.Com
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ntroduction to one of the world’s best treasures, yielding huge quantities of ore material to satisfy the commodities that make our everyday lives more
owned 45% by each of Barrick and AngloGold Ashanti, and 10% by Société Miniére de Kilo-Moto (SOKIMO). The mine is operated by Barrick.
productive. The Kibali gold mine is located in the northeast of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), approximately 220 kilometres east of the capital of the Haut Uele province, Isiro, 150 kilometres west of the Ugandan border town of Arua and 1,800 kilometres from the Kenyan port of Mombasa. The mine is owned by Kibali Goldmines SA (Kibali) which is a joint venture company effectively
Its safety record of note boasts, Zero Lost Time Injuries (LTI) recorded during Q4 2021 Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR)i in Q4 2021 of 0.00 consistent with 0.00 in Q4 2020 ISO 45001 re-certification by external audit Journey to Zero Harm (J20H) implementation on site reduced safety incidents
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Figure 2 Courtesy: Barrick.Com
The conversation continues briefing@rdjpublishing.co.za
COVID-19 Prevention protocols in place 3,339 workers with one vaccination (60% of the workforce) 2,404 workers fully vaccinated to date (43%) compared to 0.25% countrywide
Readings: https://www.barrick.com/English/operations/kibali/default.aspx https://s25.q4cdn.com/322814910/files/doc_news/2022/01/Kibali_ Delivers_Another_Stellar_Performance_and_Expects_to_Grow_Its_ Mineral_Reserves_Net_of_Depletion.pdf
This is testament to Africa production and operation capability and prowess.
Figure 3 We source face masks from local tailors and women’s groups to supply to our employees and surrounding communities Courtesy: Barrick.Com
Figure 4 Emergency response drills at Nevada Gold Mines. Keeping our employees safe is a high priority for Barrick. Courtesy: Barrick.Com
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APRIL, 2022
ELECTRICITY Namibia Readies for a new Integrated Resource Plan for Electricity AUTHOR: David Jarrett Managing Consultant @ RDJ Consulting
An Overhead Powerline.
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Courtesy: RDJ Consulting
he Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME) invited all stakeholders to their National Stakeholder Workshop on Tuesday, 29 March 2022, in the Cap-
ital, Windhoek. Here the MME launched the National Integrated Resource Plan or NIRP which is a road map for the country’s electricity outlook over a 20-year horizon. The workshop was the second in the series and presented the updated National Integrated Resource Plan and allowed the wide varying stakeholders to give their inputs on the plan. The NIRP is to be based on least-cost electricity supply and domestic demand balance with the following clear parameters of note:
Only focused on NATIONAL grid connected demand within the borders of Namibia Does not look at EXPORT opportunities (These are handled separately) Developed using several scenarios Embedded generation not included “Mega type” projects not included as these projects are not “committed” or clearly known. Price elasticity not included The NIRP sought also to balance a transition to a low carbon economy through aligning with national policy such as the National Energy Policy, The Renewable Energy Policy and the Independent Power Producer’s Policy.
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As a result, the updated NIRP seeks to fulfil meeting 70% of the energy demand (GWh/TWh) annually through renewable energy, using 80% of demanded energy from a local source (Self-sufficiency) and that in line with international constraints and realities resulted that Coal and Oil-fired plants are no longer an option for the energy mix. In respect to allowing Nuclear based generation into the mix, it was pointed out that at this time and with the long lead times, Namibia was not “nuclear ready”. This follows the fact that the uranium and nuclear energy policy to be developed that should cover the entire nuclear fuel cycle is still under development. Namibia has taken steps as far back as 2010 and has set up the Centre for Nuclear Science (CNS) at the Namibia University of Science and Technology. Canada for example has been trying to push for Small Modular Reactor (SMR) development, where SMRs are nuclear reactors that produce 300 megawatts (MW) of electricity or less. They have been mooting this pre – 2018 and still there has not been immediate resolution or action taken.
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(BESS) integral to increased Renewable Energy system penetration. Thus, there will be an emphasis on the colocation of BESS that will then be expected to reduce energy network constraints.
Proposed solar generation ranges from 0.9 GW – 1.7 GW (2022 – 2040) This action will definitely provide Namibia with security of supply once fully materialised. Watch this space. As always, the conversation continues briefing@rdjpublishing.africa
Readings: https://www.world-nuclear-news.org/ http://www.smrroadmap.ca/ http://nei.nust.na/?q=cns-centre-nuclear-science https://www.namibianuranium.org/atomic-energy-board-ofnamibia/ https://news.ontario.ca/opo/en/2019/12/premier-ford-premierhiggs-and-premier-moe-sign-agreement-on-the-development-ofsmall-modular-reacto.html
The approach given by the team means that the utilisation of Battery Energy Storage Systems capacity
Stakeholders and Consultants at the Workshop Courtesy: RDJ Consulting (Namibia)
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APRIL, 2022
RENEWABLE ENERGY Lights Systems Namibia Makes Landmark Off-Grid Strides in Botswana AUTHOR: Paulus Mulunga Managing Member @ Lights Systems Namibia
wide. It is the first bridge constructed over the Okavango River, which is part of the Okavango Delta, the 1000th World Heritage site. The bridge site which lies close to Botswana’s border with Namibia just to the north will improve transport connections between the two countries. The LSN personnel overcame several challenges on the project that included securing visas for its installation team amongst others.
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ights Systems Namibia CC, (operating as ‘Light Systems Namibia,’ or LSN) is a Namibian registered company that was appointed to construct a 30 kW Off-Grid Solar PV system at the Okavango Bridge in Mohembo Village, Botswana. The Mohembo or Okavango Bridge commissioned by the Botswanan Ministry of Transport and Communications, connects villages on the east of the Okavango River with the rest of the country and straddles the Mohembo East (Kauxwi) ferry landing site with the Mohembo West (Shakawe) ferry landing site. The 1.2km long bridge, consists of two main towers for the cable stayed portion and 18 piers. What is so creative about this solar PV system and work is that the system is exclusively designed to power the streetlights which are primarily nighttime loads requiring battery storage for the bridge in this once isolated area, now opened up by the completion of the bridge.
As pointed out by Mmegi in Botswana, “During the day the tusks and supporting cables reflect beautifully on the quiet flowing Okavango River. In the golden light of the dusk and dawn, the bridge produces an incredible silhouette that would make the Mohembo crossing a collector’s experience”. And, the builders are saying that that is not all. “Wait until it is lit." And LSN met the challenge! The conversation continues: briefing@rdjpublishing.africa
Readings: https://lsn.com.na/ https://www.keller-africa.co.za/projects/okavangoriver-bridge https://www.cpp.co.bw/ https://www.mmegi.bw/features/mohembo-bridge-themaking-of-an-icon/news
The overall project is fully funded by the Republic of Botswana through the Ministry of Transport and Communications (Road Department), was awarded as a joint venture to contractors, Itinera and Cimolai from Italy. The bridge project was funded by the Botswana Government at a contract amount of P1,045,510,751.77 (One billion and forty-five million, five hundred and ten thousand, seven hundred and fifty-one Pula, seventyseven Thebe). The supervising consultant is CPP Botswana (Pty) Ltd. The bridge is the longest in Botswana and it features two lanes, two pedestrian walkways and is about 12.5 meters
Mohembo Bridge over the Okavango. Courtesy: LSN
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APRIL, 2022
The Middle East’s first Solar-driven Hydrogen Electrolysis Facility AUTHOR: David Jarrett Managing Consultant @ RDJ Consulting
An image of the futureCourtesy: Siemens Energy LLC
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he United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced its Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative, with clean energy being one of the main pillars of addressing the challenge of climate change and reducing GHG emissions. Siemens Energy, the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) and Expo 2020 Dubai have collaborated to establish the region’s first solar-powered green hydrogen plant at the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park in Dubai. Green hydrogen is expected to play a key role in the energy transition and in the decarbonization of the global economy. Hydrogen technologies will accelerate renewable energy integration and deployment in the region and pave the way for the transition to a sustainable and green economy in the UAE. The Green Hydrogen Project covers an area of 10,000 square meters at the Outdoor Testing Facility of the DEWA Research and Development Center, which is part of the Solar Park. During the day, the plant harnesses some of the photovoltaic electricity from the MBR Solar Park to
produce green hydrogen using a technology called PEM electrolysis. At night, the green hydrogen is converted into electricity to power the city with sustainable energy.
“Connecting Minds, Creating the Future” During Expo 2020 Dubai, which took place from October 1, 2021 until March 31, 2022, the facility will test and demonstrate how green hydrogen can be produced on an industrial scale, stored, and deployed for a number of applications. In the spirit of Expo 2020 Dubai’s main theme of “Connecting Minds, Creating the Future”, the three project partners DEWA,Expo 2020, and Siemens Energy are working together to promote sustainability and innovation in a strategic partnership between the government and private sectors. Hydrogen has the potential to electrify the mobility sector further, but also offers the possibility for heavy-industry sectors to switch to the chemicals produced by electrolysis of water with renewable energy.
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The first phase of the demonstration program will focus on the production of green hydrogen for passenger cars and buses in the Masdar City area.
Power-to-X The world faces the challenge of maintaining economic growth while reducing and mitigating the effects of CO2 and other greenhouse gas emissions. To avoid a climate catastrophe, we need to achieve “net zero” emissions by 2050 and accelerate the transition to clean energy. Experts and policymakers are increasingly looking to the use of hydrogen as a potential game-changing technology. Hydrogen generated with renewables could play a key role in accelerating this transition by facilitating longterm storage of renewables and balancing out grid fluctuations caused by non-dispatchable sources. This flexibility, experts believe, will have to double by 2040. At the same time, power-to-gas – the technology of using electricity, especially surplus green power, to produce gas fuel by way of electrolysis – makes it possible to electrify those sectors that are currently still reliant on hydrocarbons and to make that power usable to transport
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goods and people, for making steel and cement, or as feedstock for the chemical industry. Establishing such an energetic link between previously separated sectors by way of renewables – also known as “sector coupling” – can reduce primary fossil energy consumption by 50 percent despite growing power demand. Generally, a more diversified fuel supply would also help to improve energy security, and some countries with cheap and abundant renewable power could dedicate that capacity entirely to making green hydrogen for local consumption and export. As always, the conversation briefing@rdjpublishing.africa
continues
Readings: https://press.siemensenergy.com/global/en/pressrelease/siemens-energy-startproduction-hydrogen-electrolyzers-berlin https://www.siemens-energy.com/mea/siemens-energy-in-middleeast/company/megaprojects/dewa-green-hydrogen-project.html https://www.siemens-energy.com/global/en/general/corporateinformation.html
Thomas Bagus (left) will head industrial production of the electrolyzers at Siemens Energy in Berlin. Courtesy: Siemens Energy LLC
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APRIL, 2022
WATER Dam Levels Update for Namibia - 28 March 2022 AUTHOR: Chilombo (Olga) Priscila Economist @ RDJ Consulting
The graph is the author's representation comparison of the present and last season's present of individual dams full capacities in Namibia. SOURCE: NamWater's weekly dam bulletin - dated 28 March 2022
BASED ON THE GRAPH: From the figure above, it is evident that the country's water sources are currently low in comparison to last season's quanities, with the exception of the Goreangab Dam which are close to or slightly higher than last seasons levels. The overall reduction in dam water levels is largely due to the lowered rainfall received this season. With regards to these observations, it is also important to note the following:
Omatjenne Dam does not have abstraction facilities. The dam contents are according to the latest dam basin surveys. The inflow that is reflected in the bulletin does not take into account evaporation and abstraction of water.
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Transfer from Omatako Dam to Von Bach Dam took place.
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Wastewater and Mines – An Underrated Opportunity AUTHOR: Chilombo (Olga) Priscila Economist @ RDJ Consulting
Mine Water Courtesy: Veolia Water Technololgies, Inc.
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ater is linked to nearly every type of activity in the mining industry, whether as groundwater, surface water, coastal water and or process wastewater and accordingly there is a substantial need to assess water quality and quantity conditions in all phases of mining: exploration, operation/production and decommissioning. The mining operations have a consistent need for a reliable source of clean water to keep business running, however given the scarcity of this precious resource in many parts of the world, as well as the cost of transporting it to mine sites, it is critical that sustainable solutions are applied to ensure that the wastewater can be repeatedly reused for further operations. Specifically, water in mining is used for mineral processing to recover valuable metals from ore, dust suppression, and also in transportation.
“DO NO HARM” Once all these processes are concluded, it is left with byproducts called clay effluent. This process creates what’s
known as mining-influenced water (MIW), which is defined as any water that’s been chemically affected by mining or mineral processing. Sadly, in its natural state the leftover contaminated mining wastewater cannot be reused or returned into the environment due to community health concerns and environmental regulations without treatment. From both an environmental and operational standpoint, the best course of action is to prevent contamination to outside water sources and safely reuse mining wastewater as much as possible. Fortunately, through advanced wastewater treatment solutions, you can reuse mining wastewater for mining, irrigation and even drinking water. The current methods of water purification from mining involve water being taken to settling ponds to all the particles to sink to the bottom, and therefore, only the clean water at the top of the settling pond is usable.
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This process however may take a long time since the particles are electrically charged and naturally repel each other, which prevents them from all settling together, and consequently leaving a large amount of unsafe water stored and unused for a long time. Negative changes in water quality can lead to unwanted consequences which in some cases is evident in mining operations. One of the standard impacts comes from acid drainage of the mines or the mine-tailing and has multiple impacts on not just the biology but also on water which is taken downstream for domestic or industrial use. The acidity can change the pH conditions in the water, but it is usually also connected to substantial changes in the concentration of various metals, which are mobilised by the changes in pH. Besides acidity the water quality can also be changed due to application of different types of chemicals to the mining and process water. Finally, also ordinary wastewater from domestic household can severely change the water quality. When it comes to water treatment for mining operations, the focus is treating process water. However, water associated with mine drainage and stormwater is also important to treat if you want to maximize water efficiencies.
to optimal pH levels. Treating your mining wastewater requires a combination of chemicals and mechanical filtration. Since mining wastewater can be highly variable, different treatment solutions and methods of mechanical filtration exist. While some equipment is better than others in most cases, each solution has a place in the right application. With the guidance of specialists, mines can operate within the framework of “do no harm” while operating. As always, the conversation briefing@rdjpublishing.africa
continues
Readings: https://www.getchemready.com/water-facts/mining-wastewatertreatment/ http://www.futurity.org/water-purification-mining-1078752-2/ https://www.canadianminingjournal.com/news/new-technology-evolvespassive-water-treatment/ https://www.cabinc.com/blog/cleaning-up-mining-operations-with-newwater-purification-technology https://www.veoliawatertech.com/en/expertise/industries-weserve/mining www.cleanteqwater.com https://www.veoliawatertech.com/sites/g/files/dvc3601/files/styles/crop_f reeform/public/image/2022/01/couv_ret-min.jpg?itok=hgaenhjx
No matter which water source you’re treating, the primary goals are to remove metals, solids, and other contaminants from the water, as well as restore the water
Figure 2 Settling Ponds.
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Courtesy: CleanTec Water
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THE ENVIRONMENT COP26: Implications for Energy Networks AUTHOR: Dr. Andreas Elombo Research Associate in Future Energy Networks@University of Bristol
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Conference of the Parties (COP)
ince the first COP meeting in 1995, member countries have convened annually to agree guidelines that could be adopted by all member countries in order to commit to abating the global threat of climate change.
thermometer, an independent scientific tool that tracks government climate action and measures it against the globally agreed Paris Agreement targets.
The Paris Agreement (2015) took on the mandate to hold to account all its signatories on the pledges they have made to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, and commit to working together to limit global warming to below 2℃ or, more ambitiously, below 1.5℃ compared to pre-industrial levels.
In the context of the renewed urgency brought about by the fast-rising global temperatures, COP26 was a meeting at which countries of the world were faced with the pressure to arrive at a concrete agreement that helps put into action all tools required to move toward a net-zero global economy by 2050. Two key outcomes that capture the essence of this urgency are the Glasgow Climate Pact, as well as the finalization of the Paris Rulebook.
The figure above shows the Climate Action Tracker
Key Outcomes of COP26
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What do the outcomes of COP26 mean for energy networks? There is an international consensus that now is the time to act with renewed efforts toward alleviating the impact of climate change and ensure that the factors contributing to the climate change crisis are abated. Specific outcomes include the intensified drive to limit global temperatures below 1.5 ℃ , the phasing down of coal-based power and the phase-out of fossil fuel subsidies, climate change and adaptation finances, and carbon markets incentives. From the perspective of energy networks, it means that the energy networks will need to adapt to the new energy resources and applications by essentially undergoing a rapid transformation that enables these networks to serve as a well-suited conduit for delivering energy to customers. The important function of energy networks is to deliver energy to customers in a reliable, sustainable, and cost-effective manner.
Electric Vehicles The electrification of motor vehicles has already given rise to the introduction of electric vehicles onto the energy networks. This is a new load that must be served by the energy networks. The charging of these vehicles, as one can imagine, will be very stochastic in nature. Combining the stochasticity of the charging of these vehicles with the intermittency in energy generation gives rise to a chaotic reality.
Heating
act as cushion that will allow us to transition from fossilbased oil and gas dependency into an era of low-carbon heating. Existing heating fuel will most likely adopt green hydrogen in place of methane-based gas heating. What this means for energy networks is that the existing gas networks will need to undergo re-designing or some sort of adaptation in order to be able to transport green hydrogen reliably and securely.
Conclusions The role of the energy sector in bringing about a net-zero reality is immense. Fossil fuels will be replaced with lowcarbon energy resources such as solar, tidal, and wind energy resources, motor vehicles will be electrified, and heating will adopt green hydrogen as a form of fuel. All of this requires energy networks that are capable to deliver energy to customers in a reliable, sustainable, and costeffective manner while navigating the complexity that arises from the integration of the variable energy sources (solar, tidal, and wind energy) and smart energy applications (V2G, demand-side response (DSR)). The race is on. The task is decarbonization. It is a global task. Collaboration is essential in accomplishing this task. The full article ‘COP26: Implications for Energy Networks’ is available to download here. https://newcastlemy.sharepoint.com/:b:/g/personal/nla22_newcastle_ac_uk/EVyti NBj32lIof9ynhOrdnQB3bV4Cz_JReV6c_Gt09DiRA?e=ZrdEfW
Gratefully reproduced by permission by the Author: Originally published 24 February 2022 www.supergenenhub.org.uk
The heating sector is also undergoing a rapid revolution of decarbonization. It is believed that green hydrogen will
Courtesy: RDJ Consulting
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ROADS AND TRANSPORT DEBMARINE: A floating technology milestone AUTHOR: David Jarrett Managing Consultant at RDJ Consulting
Bruce Cleaver, CEO, De Beers Group, said: “The Benguela Gem is the first of its kind and represents an outstanding feat of engineering design, technology innovation and sustainability performance. Despite significant challenges presented by Covid-19, the project was delivered ahead of time and budget – a testament to the world-leading skill and expertise of all involved. The investment in this vessel will support a long term, sustainable future for Namibia’s diamond sector, which is home to some to the most sought-after diamonds in the world.” Designed in Norway and Poland, with what is described as state-of-the-art fittings and technology installed in South Africa. The vessel which is stated to have the capacity of retrieving / mining 500 000 carats, has a freshwater generating system that is derived from utilizing “waste” heat and reverse osmosis similar to those in desalination plants. Debmarine Namibia's "BENGUELA GEM" Courtesy:Debmarine Namibia
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ebmarine Namibia has inaugurated its pride and joy diamond recovery vessel at a cost of USD 486 million and some two years of construction in Romania. The inauguration in Walvis Bay, Namibia was led by the President of Namibia, H. E. Dr. Hage Geingob and accompanied by the Minister of Mines and Energy, Hon. Tom Alweendo and the De Beers Group CEO, Mr.Bruce Cleaver. Minister Alweendo said: “In a world where there is global competition for capital – and where capital has become increasingly mobile – it is most pleasing to see that we are able to witness the fruits of this fantastic investment. The investment in this vessel is not just an investment in a diamond recovery vessel. It is an investment in the future of Namibia.” Otto Shikongo, CEO, Debmarine Namibia, said: “As we gather here for the inauguration of this new vessel, just days before Namibia celebrates its 32 years of independence, bear testimony that we at Debmarine Namibia will continue to make our stakeholders proud by delivering real value for both our shareholders and the people of Namibia.”
In 2021, Debmarine Namibia recovered around 1.1 million carats of rough diamonds of [a] total Namdeb Holdings production of around 1.5 million carats. The additional revenue to De Beers and the Namibian Government will be in the order of N$10 Billion (approx... USD 698 million) per annum through the economy and generate 160 additional jobs. Debmarine Namibia is a joint venture marine diamond prospecting and recovery company, owned in equal shares by the Government of the Republic of Namibia and De Beers Group. Debmarine Namibia began operations in January 2002 and recovers marine diamonds off the southern coast of Namibia in the Atlantic 1 mining licence area.
Readings: http://www.debeersgroup.com/ https://www.debeersgroup.com/media/company-news/2022/worldsmost-advanceddiamond-recovery-vessel-to-start-operating-in-namibia https://angloamerican.box.com/s/9yfejyzdo7nu13du035czkvzlrf0py6k
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APRIL, 2022
ICT & TELECOMMUNICATIONS Trevali Breaking Ground in Mining Technologies AUTHOR: Hannah Brendell Policy Specialist - Intern @ RDJ Consulting
Courtesy: Trevali
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he mining industry in Namibia is at the forefront of implementing technology to allow for more efficient performance management, safer working standards, all the while making strides among global competitors. This technology push is visibly on display as with the recent development of Debmarine’s latest diamond mining vessel which is covered here in this month’s "Roads and Transport" section. In addition to Dundee Mine’s use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in its Safety Object Recognition and Analytics (SORA) Project, here now is Trevali Mining Corporation breaking ground in technology specific to copper mining.
Trevali Mining Corporation is a mining business based in Vancouver, Canada which owns 90% of Rosh Pinah, a zinclead mine in Namibia. The mining giant in global zinc production announced in August 2021 it was underway with a pilot project on FLSmidth's patent-pending Rapid Oxidative Leach (ROL) process at its Caribou Zinc Mine, located in New Brunswick Canada. The ROL process championed by FLSmidth has achieved improved metal recoveries under atmospheric conditions through the utilization of a stirred media reactor (SMRt). The mechano-chemical approach has allowed for the mitigation of passivation making it possible to produce
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cathode copper on site in a relatively short amount of time. Some of the things that sets ROL appart from other atmospheric leaching processes is that it can process low grade concentrates of copper, the leaching process happens in under 8 hours, it is scalable,it is able to process ore bodies high in arsenic,and it has a lower environmental impact.ROLreally stands apart due to its focus on chacopyrite cooncentrates which makes up appromiximately 75% of the world’s copper supply,making it game changer in the copper mining industry.
"The positive results to date support further study and analysis given the potential implications for the Bathurst Mining Camp in general and Trevali in particular." Ricus Grimbeek, President and Chief Executive Officer of Trevali.
Despite copper being the targeted metal in the piloted project in Caribou Mine other metals such as zinc, lead, gold and silver have the potential to also have improved metallurgical recoveries. The development of ROL has the potential to positively impact mining in not only Caribou but in Trevali’s other mines such as Perkoa Mine in Burkina Faso, Rosh Pinah in Namibia, and Santander Mine in Peru. The ROL process further bolstering the technological innovations Trevali has been leading in the mining sector.
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SOURCE: Trevali Mining Corporation For further information: Investor and Media Relations Contact: Ute Koessler, Investor Relations Manager, Email: ukoessler@trevali.com, Phone: +1 (604) 336-2444
Reference: https://www.juniorminingnetwork.com/junior-miner-news/pressreleases/352-tsx/tv/104249-trevali-begins-pilot-testing-of-flsmidths-rapid-oxidative-leach-technology-at-caribou.html https://mma.prnewswire.com/Images/Download-Navy.png https://trevali.com/news/trevali-begins-pilot-testing-of-flsmidthsrapid-ox-3363/ https://trevali.com/operations/operations/roshpinah/#:~:text=The%20Rosh%20Pinah%20mine%20has,copper%2C %20silver%2C%20and%20gold. https://chamberofmines.org.na/blog-post/dundee-preciousmetals-tsumeb-uses-ai-create-safer-working-environment/ https://markets.businessinsider.com/news/stocks/trevali-beginspilot-testing-of-flsmidth-s-rapid-oxidative-leach-technology-atcaribou-1030683085 https://theminingexecutive.com/2021/01/11/mining-futuretechnologytransforming-the-future-of-mining-at-trevalis-roshpinah-zinc-lead-mine-namibia/ https://miningindaba.com/Articles/technology-is-key-to-thefuture-of-the-south https://www.juniorminingnetwork.com/junior-miner-news/pressreleases/352-tsx/tv/104249-trevali-begins-pilot-testing-of-flsmidths-rapid-oxidative-leach-technology-at-caribou.html https://im-mining.com/2021/08/03/trevali-to-test-out-flsmidthsrapid-oxidative-leach-tech-on-caribou-material/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rDxoirT_rk
RDJ publishing looks forward to following the continued strides of the Trevali Mining Corporation in the industry overall and is committed to sharing the latest updates as they become public.
Courtesy: Trevali
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APRIL, 2022
YOUTH IN ACTION Climate Change meets Innovative Youth AUTHOR: Hannah Brendell Policy Specialist - Intern @ RDJ Consulting
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Climate Change is real and its here, but it did not plan on meeting our featured youth. Atushe Mubonenwa is passionate about tackling climate change and sustainable energy. She has applied herself to developing “innovative ideas to solve modern problems”. It was her passion that drove her to start thinking through and developing solutions to existing issues during the Covid-19 pandemic. The initial trigger to invest her efforts into a hydrogen car was during a conversation with her mother on how expensive fuel prices were becoming. She felt that there was a need to find ways to address other ways for cheaper fuel and thought up the plan of using water to power a car. Enter, hydrogen energy which is a derivative of water and is environmentally cleaner than most other energy sources. Given that there are no pollutants or greenhouse gases produced, the benefits do not stop there. Atushe identified a potential use of residual oxygen from the process to be used in hospitals and clinics as the indispensability of oxygen cannot be overstated as demonstrated during the Covid-19 pandemic. Atushe completed high school at Windhoek High School in Namibia in 2019 and during the pandemic set off on a journey to develop projects aimed at addressing renewable energy alternatives while also seeking to address the oxygen shortage the world faced due to Covid-19. Her project was so impressive that it caught the attention of HDF Energy and she currently interns with the company specializing in hydrogen technologies having their head-
Mingle with people who will help you grow Ms. Atushe Mubonenwa
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quarters in France. HDF Energy is currently launching their first hydrogen plant in Africa, in Namibia which is where Atushe is currently based.
other networking avenues to market herself. This has proved to be a very useful technique given that it was through networking that she was able to secure her internship at HDF.
able to use a fork as an electrolyzer. These small successes kept her motivated and fed into larger successes such as her current internship at HDF Energy.
Atushe spent long hours invested in researching hydrogen cars through online resources such as YouTube and articles. She mentions how invaluable a source of information the internet is and how its availability makes it easy for nearly anybody to learn online or teach themselves something they are interested in. This hydrogen project is not the first time Atushe tried to address an issue plaguing her community. In 2014 , she entered the Regional Science Fair and won the Bronze Metal for demonstrating how a plant indigenous to Namibia named “Oshimumu” could be used as natural tooth paste to successfully prevent tooth decay. Despite her success and promises of funding this project never became marketable due to what she reckons as her lack of knowledge on how to market herself and network. Since then, she has made a point to ensure she uses social media and
Two of the biggest challenges Atushe faced initially were financial and a lack of support. She had no access to large sums of money to kick start her project and had to rely heavily on her savings and assistance from her brother and a friend. In addition to that she utilized materials readily available around her such as going to scrap metal dumps for steel needed for her project. The lack of support she faced was a challenge that manifested in people around her reacting to her with skepticism and disbelief whenever she would discuss her plan to build a hydrogen car.
“Things are moving quickly so there is a need to innovate quickly.”
She notes however that despite the little she had she used it wisely and always invested her efforts in having something tangible to show for her efforts ensuring that progress was obvious. Her innovation and tenacity shone through in how she was even www.rdjpublishing.africa
She is currently focused on learning all she can at HDF Energy and given her passion for all things hydrogen she hopes in the near future to support the development of hydrogen cars in the region or various other hydrogen projects. This feeds into her larger hope of being a pioneer in the sustainable renewable energy space to alleviate CO2 emissions and encourage the uptake of renewable energies. Atushe had these words of encouragement for the youth: “Mingle with people who will help you grow, know how to manage your time and put God first.”
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WOMEN IN INDUSTRY Mining and Health Interview with Ms. Zenzi Awases Interviewed by Ms. Kina Indongo (Communications Contributor - RDJ Consulting)
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he Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2030 agenda recognises health as a key feature of all aspects of sustainable development: society, economy and environment. It encourages multisectorial collaboration and shared responsibility of safeguarding health including the mining sector. Ms. Zenzi Awases, the President of the Women in Mining Association Namibia takes us through the impact of health compliance on mining in Namibia.
We do not inherit land from our ancestors we borrow it from our children. Ms. Zenzi Awases
Personal Journey Ms. Awases holds a Bachelor of Technology in Geology from the Tshwane University of Technology and a Bachelor of Science (Honors) in Geology from the University of Stellenbosch. Additionally, she has a Post Graduate Diploma in Business Management and Administration from the University of Stellenbosch Business School. Her academic career is followed by an impressive professional career of sixteen years in the Diamond exploration mining industry. Starting her career as a Staff Geologist at Namdeb, she eventually worked her way up to Senior Geologist. In 2012 She was employed as Senior Exploration Geologist at Debmarine Namibia. She is currently an Independent Mining Consultant as well as an Entrepreneur.
Challenges Ms. Awases says for the first 8 years of her career she didn't face any discrimination or challenges that were directly tied to her gender. www.rdjpublishing.africa
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However, as her career began to grow she noticed that her male colleagues would be promoted ahead of her. When she would inquire as to why she was being passed over for promotions she received excuses such as ‘she just wasn't ready yet.’ A study by Price waterhouse Cooper (PWC) on UK Owned Mines conducted in 2013 found that collectively, women occupy 8% of all board seats in the top 100 mining companies. Additionally, as a woman she had to leave her family to be in the field, whilst in the field she found that personal protective equipment (PPE) and tools; have historically been designed and manufactured with men in mind e.g. One-piece overalls; illfitting shoes, hats and gloves etc.
Personal achievements Ms. Awases says her biggest personal achievement has been overcoming her fears of heights, water and claustrophobia in order to pursue her career in mining. She goes on to explain that “seeing the sites I have worked on develop into a fully functioning mine is a pride of mine.” What motivates her to achieve her goals is closely tied to the commodity being mined that being diamonds and the impact that diamonds play in the economy of the country, is a huge motivator for her.
Industry Expertise Do you believe Namibia, through its various mechanisms, has enough support programs for health in the mining industry and in particular, women’s health? “The safety of employees and the safety of female employees is supported, however there are elements of health such as well-being and environment that are not receiving as much attention as it ideally should.” Said Ms. Awases. Studies show that in Subsaharan Africa there is not enough data collected of health outcomes, in women of reproductive age, who
either work or live around mines and extractive industries. However, on the other hand, health interventions and community development initiatives (e.g. women empowerment and targeted educational programs) initiated or supported by extractive industry projects offer opportunities to improve women's health. Do you believe there are open channels of communication in Namibia generally, that workers who feel that their safety in the workplace is being neglected can come forward and say so without fear of retaliation or antagonistic retribution? Although there are checks and balances to ensure that safety is a priority in the workplace, there are economic drivers that see to it that production supersedes safety. “What happens is if an employee feels they are not protected most of the time that individual who stands up for themselves would be victimized.” Said Ms. Awases There is a monetary incentive for employees to not report minor injuries for fear of going on An LTI (Lost Time Injury) An LTI is an injury sustained by an employee that leads to loss of productive work in the form of absenteeism or delays. Because the time lost would directly affect the size of the year end production bonus employees are hesitant to report injuries. Therefore, although there are channels of communication they are not always so encouraged or available. Are there policies in place in Namibia that actively encourage employees to familiarize themselves with the health and safety standards and codes? In Namibia there is a National Occupational Safety and Health Policy, that was released in December 2021, However it is not a well communicated policy as many do not know about the policy or what the policy entails “I myself only recently heard about it after inquiring from my colleagues.” Said Ms. Awases www.rdjpublishing.africa
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To what magnitude do on site occupational injuries impact mining operations in Namibia? A large majority of Namibian mines are owned by international organizations, and the products of those mines are exported internationally, therefore if the country has a high rate of occupational injuries it directly affects Namibia's investment appeal. It is important to build an inclusive workplace culture where appropriate work practices are consistently applied across the organization. After over a 100 plus years of extracting minerals in Namibia, and having over the years perfected the safety model, there are still other areas that need to be focused on. Especially after the Covid-19 pandemic it became clear that there needs to be more emphasis on the wellbeing of employee mental health. “I am happy to see that it is becoming a topical discussion right now but it needs to be prioritized and one of the ways to do that is to promote an organizational wellness culture which would help address the gaps in the health and safety discussion.” Said Ms. Awases
Conclusion As a final word of encouragement Ms. Awases says “Nothing is impossible, the sky's the limit. All of that is true however it requires a lot of self introspection.” She goes on to add that “The mining industry is not a glamorous industry .” She finds that especially when young women are in high school looking at careers they tend to look at the more glitzy part of a career rather than being more aware of the role their position plays in the overall picture. Ms. Awases ends with a recent favourite quote of hers “We do not inherit land from our ancestors we borrow it from our children.” She believes that when you have this mindset you can succeed in whatever you pursue.
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TENDER NAMPOWER Description: Readvertisement: NamPower (Pty) Ltd hereby invites qualified, competent, and registered companies to submit their bids for the following: Construction of the Medium Voltage (MV) and Low Voltage (LV) supplying Seringkop Settlement Farm in Kunene Region.Call for Proposals for Engineering, Procurement and construction of (EPC) in Zambia Bid Closing Date: 29 April 2022 Description:ReAdvertisement: NamPower (Pty) Ltd hereby invites qualified, competent, and registered companies to submit their bids for the following: Construction of the Medium Voltage (MV) and Low Voltage (LV) networks supplying Ozorongondo localities in Omaheke Region. Closing Date: 29 April 2022 Description: ReAdvertisement: NamPower (Pty) Ltd hereby invites qualified, competent, and registered companies to submit their bids for the following: Construction
CAREERS of the Medium Voltage (MV) and Low Voltage (LV) Networks supplying Jakkaldraai in //Kharas Region. Bid Closing Date: 29 April 2022
THE NAMIBIAN NEWSPAPER Position: Marketing, Events and Brand Coordinator Closing Date: 19 April 2022
SPEARPOINT CONSULTING SERVICES CC Position: FINANCIAL ACCOUNTANT/MANAGER Closing Date:29 April 2022
Description: Readvertisement: NamPower (Pty) Ltd hereby invites qualified, competent, and registered companies to submit their bids for the following: Construction of the Medium Voltage (MV) and Low Voltage (LV) Networks supplying Otshikolongondjo Locality in Oshana Region. Bid closing date: 29 April 2022
B2Gold Namibia Position: GRADUATE TRAINEE: EARTHMOVING DIESEL MECHANIC Closing Date: 7 April 2022
SWAKOPMUND MUNICIPALITY Position: TRUCK DRIVER Closing Date: 20 April 2022
Description: ReAdvertisement: NamPower (Pty) Ltd hereby invites qualified, competent, and registered companies to submit their bids for the following: Construction of the Medium Voltage (MV) and Low Voltage (LV) Networks supplying Edward JP in Ohangwena Region Closing Date: 29 April 2022
Potentia Namibia Recruitment Position: PHARMACIST ASSISTANT | Grade 9 Omusati Region Closing Date:11 April 2022 Position: ENROLLED NURSE | Grade 10 Khomas Region| Robert Mugabe Clinic Closing Date: 11 April 2022 Position: Cervical Cancer Prevention (CECAP) REGISTERED NURSE Closing Date: 11 April 2022 Coca-Cola Namibia Bottling Company (Pty) LTD Position: YOUTH ACTIVATOR / COMMERCIAL ADMINISTRATOR WINDHOEK Closing Date: 14 April 2022
Position: CONSTRUCTION COMPACTOR OPERATOR Closing Date: 20 April 2022 Position: SUPERINTENDENT: PARKS & GARDENS Closing Date: 20 April 2022 Town Lodge Windhoek Position: Sales Executive Closing Date: 8 April 2022 Bank BIC Namibia Limited Position: International Business & Foreign Exchange Officer Closing Date: 8 April 2022 Bank of Namibia Position: Senior IT Security Specialist Closing Date: 8 April 2022
APRIL, 2022
CONRIBUTING AUTHORS
DAVID JARRETT Editor
NICOLE FELIX CHILOMBO OLGA PRISCILA Designers/Layout
RENEE JARRETT Group Executive
AMAKHOE //HOABES Sales & Business Consultant
DAVID JARRETT (Managing Consultant) RDJ Consulting Services CC
CHILOMBO OLGA PRISCILA (Operations Manager / Economist) RDJ Consulting Services CC
KINA INDONGO (Communications Contributor) RDJ Consulting Services CC
HANNAH BRENDELL (Policy Specialist - Intern) RDJ Consulting Services CC
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