juwi consortium to supply South African platinum mine with renewables

Two projects are currently in the planning stages: A power purchase agreement for a combination of solar PV and wind turbines to generate the 40 MW mine load via a wheeling agreement from two separate sites, one in Limpopo and one in the Western Cape. This project will provide 55-60% of the mine's energy needs and is expected to be operational in 2024. Second, a 35 MW solar power plant will be built on or adjacent to the mine to directly meet growing energy demand, with commissioning planned for 2026.

The Pilanesberg platinum mine is located about 60 km northwest of Rustenburg on the western edge of the Bushveld complex. Mine owner Sedibelo expects the renewable energy projects to reduce the mine's carbon dioxide emissions by about 45%, resulting in significant cost savings and relieving pressure on the country's power grid.

juwi will act as joint developer, EPC contractor and O&M contractor for these projects. The juwi Group is one of the leading renewable energy specialists. For 25 years, the renewable energy pioneer has offered complete project development as well as other services related to the planning, construction and operation of renewable energy plants. The juwi Group's business areas include projects with wind and solar energy as well as hybrid systems with storage for industrial applications.

Sedibelo's CEO, Arne Frandsen, comments, “Our decision to procure renewable energy for our mining operations is an important part of our ESG journey as a mining company. This is but one of a number of initiatives designed to cut our carbon emissions, increase our efficiencies and grow our contribution to the South African economy. All companies have a role to play in reducing carbon emissions. Mining companies can be a big part of the solution and Sedibelo is serious about making a significant contribution to this effort. We will make additional announcements in this regard in due course.”

Lael Bethlehem, Sedibelo's Chief ESG Officer, said, “When President Ramaphosa announced that companies would be able to generate their own renewable power up to 100MW, he unleashed tremendous opportunities which are impacting positively on the environment, on business and on the economy, while also taking pressure off the grid. Sedibelo looks forward to working with Sturdee and Juwi to bring these projects to fruition.”