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Energy

Johan Helberg, head of sales, Africa, Aggreko

Africa’s mining sector requires power reliability as a matter of survival, making it critical that companies invest in solutions that deliver longevity and reliability, says Johan Helberg, head of sales, Africa, Aggreko

According to the International Monetary Fund, global demand for critical minerals is set to increase significantly. For nickel, demand will double between 2022 and 2050, cobalt will triple, and lithium will increase tenfold says the International Energy Agency – and sub-Saharan Africa has an estimated 30% of these minerals in reserves. The region has immense potential, but realising the potential requires reliable energy solutions, particularly as mining operations across the continent continue to grapple with unstable power grids, rising energy costs, and increased pressure to meet sustainability goals.

As the Boston Consulting Group pointed out in its 2024 Africa Mining Outlook analysis, mining is not an easy business, but its complexity is compounded by energy instability, demand for cleaner energy supplies, and costs.

The impact of unreliable energy on the mining sector is extensive. Energy supply shortages have a direct impact on a mining organisation’s bottom line as companies have to invest in alternative solutions and failovers that can cost upwards of 30% of their total cash operating costs. The industry is reliant on continuous operations to remain profitable which makes reliable power crucial to remaining operational and financially stable. A study undertaken by Nelson Mandela University in South Africa, for example, found that loadshedding has a long-term negative impact on mining equity returns and impacts on stock viability for international investors.

The cost of energy unreliability makes a compelling case for hybrid energy solutions designed to not just mitigate the risks but to provide mining organisations with the tools they need to build resilient power infrastructure. These hybrid systems combine traditional power sources with renewable energy and battery storage to create robust energy platforms that ensure mines can maintain operations even when the grid fails. By blending multiple energy sources, they offer immediate fail-over energy provision within a single, intelligent system that prioritises both reliability and efficiency.

Hybrid also allows companies to distance themselves from the complexities that continue to plague power management, generation and infrastructure on the continent. Regulatory and policy uncertainty is affecting approvals and generating uncertainty when it comes to establishing independent power solutions, and there remain financial and infrastructural challenges that inhibit investment and growth.

Three key pillars

The effectiveness of hybrid systems lies in three key pillars:

The first is that hybrid systems offer mining organisations redundancy through multiple power sources. When one fails, others can compensate which ensures continuous operations and reduced risks and costs. This is particularly useful in remote mining locations where grid connections are weak or non-existent.

The second is that these systems incorporate battery storage technology which acts as a buffer against power fluctuations while providing immediate access to power on demand. Battery storage systems have the added benefit of improving overall plant efficiencies while reducing fuel consumption and maintaining power quality. This technology can help mining operations prioritise stable power supply during peak demand periods or when renewable sources are temporarily unavailable.

Finally, hybrid brings a new level of scalability and flexibility to operations. These are critical when considering how rapidly a mine’s power needs can change thanks to both internal and external factors. Modern hybrid systems offer mines the ability to adjust and scale energy provision and structure according to demand and to create a power infrastructure that fits their operations as they evolve.

However, implementing an effective hybrid solution needs to be strategic and well engineered, finding the optimal balance between sustainability, cost and reliability. This balance is particularly important within the African context where operational challenges can be more pronounced due to infrastructure limitations and operating in rural locations. Success means customising each hybrid solution to meet the unique power requirements, environmental conditions and operational constraints of each mining operation, and to partner with an energy provider that understands these constraints and knows how to develop relevant, tailored solutions.

The financial aspect of hybrid systems is also important. While the initial investment appears to be costly, the long-term benefits across operational stability, reduced downtime and reliable output can outweigh these. There are financing solutions that have evolved to support the sector in its move towards sustainable and reliable energy as well. The Build Own Operate Maintain (BOOM) model, for example, is a modern financing option that allows for the mining company to access reliable power without substantial upfront capital expenditure.

Aggreko solutions

Aggreko's hybrid solutions seamlessly integrate cutting-edge solar power and battery technology with traditional fuels like diesel, offering a blend of low emissions and high reliability. These systems are designed to prioritise solar power, maximising efficiency and minimizing environmental impact. During periods of high sunlight, batteries store solar energy to be used throughout the day, while generators automatically step in only when solar power is insufficient to prevent disruptions. Aggreko's advanced diesel and gas generators are engineered to minimise pollutants, ensuring that emissions remain as low as possible when in use. An intelligent energy management control system oversees the entire process, guaranteeing uninterrupted energy supply while reducing fuel costs and carbon emissions.

Looking ahead, the adoption of hybrid energy systems in African mining operations will become increasingly attractive to companies as the technology continues to evolve and costs come down. These hybrid solutions offer a practical solution to the ongoing power reliability challenge and enable mining companies to maintain continuous operations and build the resilience they need to thrive. The key to success lies in choosing the right energy partner who has deep industry expertise and a proven track record in implementing hybrid solutions in challenging environments.

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Eco Wave Power and AGFDL launch feasibility study for clean energy at strategic South African deep-water port. (Image source: Eco Wave Power)

Eco Wave Power Global AB, a leading developer of onshore wave energy technology, has entered the African renewable energy space by signing an agreement with Africa Great Future Development Ltd (AGFDL)

The agreement outlines a feasibility study for establishing a wave energy power station at the Port of Ngqura in South Africa.

This initiative is Eco Wave Power’s inaugural venture into Africa and supports its broader objective of expanding into regions with strong coastal energy potential and growing renewable energy needs.

South Africa currently relies heavily on coal, with more than 80% of its electricity derived from coal-fired power plants. Widespread energy shortages and environmental issues point to an urgent need for clean and dependable alternatives. With over 2,800 kilometers of coastline, the country offers considerable wave energy potential to diversify its energy sources.

“Eco Wave Power is excited to explore South Africa’s wave energy potential in partnership with AGFDL,” said Inna Braverman, Founder and CEO of Eco Wave Power. “This feasibility study represents a meaningful step toward addressing energy access and sustainability in Africa, while advancing our global mission to commercialise wave energy technology.”

Wave Energy potential 

The Port of Ngqura, located in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province and operated by Transnet National Ports Authority, lies adjacent to the Coega Special Economic Zone—the largest SEZ in Southern Africa. With its strong breakwater infrastructure and direct ocean exposure, the port is well-positioned for a wave energy installation.

“This collaboration represents an important opportunity to support Africa’s clean energy transition,” said Wilfred Emmanuel-Gottlieb, CEO of AGFDL. “Wave energy has the potential to play a key role in delivering sustainable, reliable power to underserved communities and industries.”

“This project is about delivering practical, long-term impact,” added Alphonsus Ukah, co-founder and chairman of AGFDL. “We believe this technology could become a critical part of Africa’s renewable energy future, and we are pleased to begin this journey with Eco Wave Power.”

The feasibility study in South Africa expands Eco Wave Power’s growing international project pipeline. The company already operates a grid-connected wave energy station at Jaffa Port in Israel, developed with EDF Renewables IL. It is also nearing the launch of its first U.S. wave power station at the Port of Los Angeles in September 2025, developed in collaboration with Shell Marine Renewable Energy (MRE).

Further projects in the pipeline include a megawatt-scale installation in Portugal, pilot initiatives in Taiwan with I-Ke, and in India with Bharat Petroleum, a Fortune 500 firm.

“These developments reflect our strategy to demonstrate the scalability and viability of wave energy across diverse global markets,” Braverman added. “Africa’s energy challenges require bold innovation, and we are proud to take this first step toward delivering real solutions on the continent.”

Zambia to get its first crude oil refinery

Zambia’s Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) has signed an initial agreement with China’s Fujian Xiang Xin Corporation to build the country’s first oil refinery, as well as a 130 MW power plant, as part of an integrated energy complex worth around US$1.1bn

The crude oil refinery and energy complex in Ndola would provide additional electricity for the national grid and the country’s strategic Copperbelt mining region.

The signing of a memorandum of understanding between the two parties was witnessed by President Hakainde Hichilema and Chinese Ambassador to Zambia H.E. Han Jing.

The planned facility will have the capacity to process three million metric tonnes of crude oil per year — equivalent to approximately 60,000 barrels per day — sufficient to meet Zambia’s entire current fuel demand and creating potential for exports to neighbouring countries, IDC said in a statement.

It also outlined an aggressive project delivery schedule, with work commencing this year.

“Groundbreaking for the project is targeted for the third quarter of 2025, with the first phase of commercial operations anticipated to commence in 2026,” IDC noted.

Beyond fuel production, the refinery will also include facilities for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) bottling, bitumen production, lubricant blending, and a 130 MW generation plant, IDC added.

This will contribute 100 MW of electricity to the national grid, with some power supply being utilised to run the new energy complex and refinery set up.

“The project is further expected to stimulate investments in new storage infrastructure, rail upgrades and provide feedstock for industries such as plastics, fertilisers, synthetic materials and asphalt manufacturing,” IDC added.

Potentially, self-sufficiency in fuel could save the nation millions of dollars annually in imports.

An IDC spokesperson told Reuters the refinery would source crude from the Middle East and that it would be imported through the Tanzanian port of Dar es Salaam.

The Democratic Republic of Congo is one potential export market, with Congo Petrol unveiling plans for an oil storage depot in Lubumbashi earlier this year.

During the construction phase, the project is expected to generate about 2,200 jobs across civil works, mechanical and electrical installations, and logistics.

Once operational, it will sustain around 600 direct jobs and more than 2,000 indirect jobs in plant operations, supply chain services, maintenance, and support roles.

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The new industrial power plant at Kouriah (Image source: Himoinsa)

Himoinsa has completed a project to supply a comprehensive power solution for a metal factory in Kouriah, Guinea

The 24 MW power plant, located close to the capital, Conakry, will mitigate the effects of power cuts that have historically undermined industries in the area, and guarantee the supply of electricity

Himoinsa provided a comprehensive solution that includes 12 diesel generator sets, eight fuel tanks, medium-voltage switches, step-down transformers, synchronisation and fuel automation systems, among other equipment.

It will serve a large industrial plant dedicated to metallurgy, with a focus on process efficiency and optimum fuel consumption.

“The system has been designed to operate with parallel synchronisation between the 12 HTW 2030 T5 diesel generator sets,” Himoinsa said in a statement.

It added that the gensets are particularly suitable for high volume industrial applications due to their efficiency and ease of maintenance, which has allowed a balanced load and an effective response to peak demand.

“The 0.4/20 kV step-up transformers and medium-voltage switchgear are configured to ensure safe and efficient electricity distribution,” it noted.

“Fuel automation is key to optimising the use of resources and ensuring that the system operates continuously without interruption.”

Himoinsa added that the facilities have enabled the industrial plant to operate continuously thanks to automation and remote monitoring system.

A SCADA system allows operators to efficiently monitor and control the performance of the generator sets from any location, which has improved their ability to respond to any eventuality.

Local technical support has also been available during the set up of the project.

Yanmar Turkey also played a key role in the project, working with Himoinsa in the supply of medium voltage material through to the commissioning and installation work.

“Their experience and technical support have been essential to the correct integration and operation of the system,” Himoinsa added.

Key challenges faced during implementation included high-temperature operating conditions and high humidity, especially during the rainy season, and logistical challenges due to the limited infrastructure and the location of the plant, which hampered the delivery and assembly of heavy and bulky equipment.
 
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Scatec lands Kroonstad PV cluster

Norwegian-based energy developer Scatec ASA has been awarded preferred bidder status on a new 846 MW solar power project by South Africa

It covers the so-called Kroonstad PV cluster, awarded by the Department of Electricity and Energy (DEE), under the seventh round of the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP).

Located in Free State province, the ‘cluster’ will comprise three solar power plants: Oslaagte Solar 2 (293 MW), Oslaagte Solar 3 (293 MW) and Leeuwspruit Solar (260 MW).

The award follows a re-allocation of megawatts under the seventh bid window from onshore wind to solar PV, Scatec noted in a statement.

Once operational, the various projects will provide clean and reliable energy under 20-year power purchase agreements (PPAs).

Scatec CEO Terje Pilskog called it another significant milestone for the company in South Africa, and one that marks its largest megawatt award to date in the country.

“The Kroonstad PV Cluster represents a significant addition to Scatec’s growing renewable energy footprint in sub-Saharan Africa,” he said.

“South Africa is one of our core markets and we are dedicated to continuing to grow our renewables capacity in the country in alignment with the nation’s energy transition agenda.”

Scatec entered the South African market in 2010, and with 730 MW in solar operation already, it is a leading player in the country's renewable energy space.

Cape Town is also where it maintains its engineering hub, a control and monitoring centre, and where it develops other new projects across Africa.

The estimated total project cost for the Kroonstad PV cluster project is ZAR 13 billion (US$735mn).

This will be financed with up to 90% non-recourse project debt and the remaining by equity from the owners.

Scatec will own 50.90% of the equity in the project with Stanlib’s infrastructure fund (through its renewable energy platform, Greenstreet), along with Redstreet owning 46.50% and a Community Trust holding 2.6%.

Scatec will provide engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC), operations and maintenance (O&M), and asset management (AM) services to the project, with financial close expected next year.

“We are now looking forward to reaching financial close and start construction of the PV cluster during 2026,” said Alberto Gambacorta, Scatec’s executive vice-president and general manager for sub-Saharan Africa.

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