Mining companies across Africa are increasingly turning to solar power to reduce energy costs and enhance sustainability. The Otjikoto mine in Namibia, operated by B2Gold, marked a significant milestone in 2018 by installing a 6MW solar facility with battery storage, supplying 13% of the mine’s electricity. This step allowed the company to reduce its reliance on heavy fuel oil (HFO) plants, which are both costly and environmentally harmful.
Ken Jones, B2Gold’s director of sustainability, explained that the company’s move toward renewables was driven by its commitment to reducing carbon emissions. “Climate risk management is really what it’s about,” he said. In 2023, B2Gold connected to Namibia’s national grid and placed its HFO plant under care and maintenance. Meanwhile, the company’s Fekola mine in Mali is set to generate 30% of its electricity from solar energy, making it the first operation of its scale to completely halt thermal engine use during daylight hours.
Cost Advantages Fuel Solar Adoption
While environmental sustainability is a key motivator, the declining cost of solar power has made the transition even more appealing. According to James Shoetan, chief commercial officer at CrossBoundary Energy, renewable hybrid systems can now be 20-30% cheaper than conventional thermal power plants. Falling battery prices and technological advancements have contributed to this affordability.
“Five years ago, it was challenging to convince mining companies to consider solar. Today, it’s becoming the norm, especially for mines without access to a stable grid,” said Roberto Berardo, senior vice president for mining and industries at solar developer Release by Scatec. He noted that most upcoming mines are integrating solar energy into their power systems, while existing operations are beginning to explore renewable options to offset high fuel costs.
Challenges and Innovations in Renewable Integration
Despite progress, challenges remain. Solar energy alone cannot meet a mine’s entire energy demand, particularly at night. Jones stated that wind power is a necessary addition to further reduce emissions at Fekola. Additionally, large-scale solar installations require significant land, which is not always available near mining sites.
An alternative is the use of “wheeling,” a process where renewable energy is generated off-site and transmitted via national grids. While wheeling is gaining traction in countries like South Africa and Namibia, regulatory and infrastructure limitations hinder its widespread implementation across the continent.
Transforming Africa’s Mining Sector
Africa’s mining industry is poised for a renewable energy revolution, driven by the need for cost efficiency and reduced carbon emissions. With demand for critical minerals growing due to the global energy transition, the push for sustainable practices is stronger than ever. Experts predict larger renewable projects and near-total reliance on solar and wind energy at mine sites in the near future.
“The outlook is fantastic,” said Shoetan. “We’ll see increasingly ambitious solutions as renewables become more affordable and effective.”
As Africa embraces cleaner energy for mining, the sector is setting a precedent for sustainable industrial practices while contributing to the global shift toward renewable energy.