Driving sustainable energy solutions in African mining

By implementing innovative energy solutions that combine traditional and renewable-energy sources, particularly in regions such as South Africa, Mali, Côte d'Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Tanzania and Eritrea, power solutions supplier Aggreko Energy Services is expanding its footprint across Africa.

These initiatives, which integrate renewable-energy plant and enhance operational efficiency, are a part of the company’s strategic projects and proactive transition to greener forms of power generation, which mining head Johan Helberg says underscores Aggreko’s commitment to supporting Africa’s sustainable development and energy security.

Another key aspect of Aggreko’s strategic initiatives is transitioning from diesel to cleaner fuels such as biogas, and various other types of gas.

The company is also deploying solar PV and wind energy solutions, with a strong emphasis on battery storage to manage periods of peak demand and to integrate renewable sources more effectively.

Aggreko’s research and development initiatives focus on creating scalable and adaptable energy solutions customised to the unique needs of each project.

By investing in modern technologies and exploring new fuel types, Helberg says Aggreko aims to deliver reliable, cost-effective and environment-friendly power solutions.

The company deploys on-the-ground support teams and remote operation centres to ensure less downtime and increased efficiency of its energy solutions.

This comprehensive approach guarantees a reliable power supply and optimal performance of Aggreko's installations across diverse and challenging environments, says Helberg.

He explains that Aggreko’s maintenance strategy involves regular inspections, preventive maintenance, and real-time monitoring of equipment performance on and off site.

“By proactively addressing potential issues, Aggreko minimises disruptions and ensures that its power systems operate efficiently. This commitment to operational excellence is a key factor in the company’s ability to deliver consistent and reliable energy solutions,” elaborates Helberg.

Further, by prioritising community engagement and sustainable practices, Aggreko strengthens its role as a responsible corporate citizen in Africa, the company reports.

The company’s community engagement initiatives include job creation, skills development and support for local infrastructure projects.

“These efforts not only enhance the social impact of Aggreko’s projects, but also foster goodwill and long-term partnerships with local stakeholders,” notes Helberg.

By deploying hybrid power solutions that integrate traditional diesel or modern gas engines, coupled with advanced battery storage and solar systems, Aggreko is helping mining operations meet their environmental, social and governance (ESG) objectives, with this strategic blend reducing carbon footprints while ensuring a stable and reliable energy supply.

Specifically, Aggreko’s projects in Mali include gold and silver miner Resolute Mining’s Syama mine and gold producer Hummingbird Resources’ mine.

The Syama mine benefits from a hybrid power plant that combines thermal power with a battery energy storage system, reducing fuel consumption and enhancing energy reliability, points out Helberg.

Côte d'Ivoire, DRC, Eritrea

In Côte d'Ivoire, Helberg says Aggreko has demonstrated its capacity to rapidly deliver energy solutions through its recent provision of a 14 MW backup power plant to a gold mining operation within a swift 57-day period.

This intervention was critical in addressing hydro power generation grid failures caused by drought, ensuring continuous mining activities and exemplifying Aggreko’s ability to respond promptly to energy crises.

The rapid deployment involved “meticulous planning and execution”, and quickly mobilising resources and installing the backup power systems, the company reports.

Aggreko mitigated the impact of grid instability, safeguarding production timelines and the economic viability of the mining operations, the company adds.

In the DRC, Aggreko partnered with copper and cobalt miner Eurasian Resources Group (ERG) to modernise mining operations with greener technologies, supporting a project exceeding 60 MW, focusing on enhancing efficiencies and integrating renewable-energy technologies.

This initiative reflects Aggreko's strategic shift towards sustainable energy solutions, aligning with global trends aimed at reducing reliance on fossil fuels, notes Helberg.

He adds that Aggreko’s involvement in the DRC extends to implementing advanced power management systems that optimise energy use across mining operations.

“By leveraging technology to monitor and control energy consumption, Aggreko helps to reduce operational costs and environmental impact, underscoring the potential of technological innovation in driving sustainability in the mining industry,” he tells Mining Weekly.

Meanwhile, Aggreko’s project in Eritrea involves a hybrid energy solution that combines traditional diesel engines with an expanding solar plant, ensuring a positive carbon footprint while maintaining a reliable power supply for mining operations.

The solar plant in Eritrea is designed to complement existing diesel-powered generators, providing a more sustainable energy mix; as the solar capacity increases, dependence on diesel fuel decreases, leading to lower greenhouse-gas emissions and operating costs.

Tanzania, South Africa

Aggreko’s partnerships with gold and copper miners, in Tanzania and South Africa, focus on implementing responsible green technology solutions to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability in gold mining operations.

The projects involve deploying modular power plants capable of adapting to varying power demands, enabling operations to optimise their energy use, reduce waste and improve overall operational efficiency.

Aggreko’s solutions also incorporate renewable-energy sources, where feasible.

Looking ahead, Helberg says Aggreko anticipates a growing demand for decentralised energy solutions in Africa, as the company aims to stay at the forefront of the energy sector by aligning its strategies with emerging green technologies and providing cost-effective, sustainable power solutions.

“Decentralised energy solutions offer several advantages, including increased resilience, reduced transmission losses, and greater flexibility in meeting local energy demands,” he says, noting that the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability will continue to drive its growth and success in the African energy market.