Joining forces with Eramet Grande Côte on a large-scale off-grid hybrid project in Senegal
In collaboration with Eramet Grande Côte, we have reached financial close on a €30 million (ZAR 600 million) off-grid solar PV and battery storage project at the GCO mine in Senegal.
The 20 MWp solar and 11 MWh battery project will meet 20% of the mine's energy needs, cutting 25,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually while creating over 100 jobs during its construction and maintenance phases. This project is among the largest off-grid hybrid installations in Senegal and represents a vital step forward in reducing the mine’s reliance on heavy fuel oil, improving production stability, and aligning with Eramet’s global decarbonisation strategy.
The clean energy produced by this plant will significantly enhance Eramet Grande Côte's environmental performance. Our clients will benefit from products with increased environmental value.
This project is part of Eramet’s larger commitment to the global fight against climate change, in line with their Science-Based Targets initiative, aiming for a 40% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2035.
Why this matters for mining in Africa
Mining remains a key pillar of economic growth across Africa, but it is also an energy-intensive industry. Mines across the continent are under increasing pressure to reduce their environmental impact, especially as many still rely on hydrocarbon fuels to power generators due to limited grid infrastructure.
Sustainable mining technologies are crucial in reducing the environmental impact of industrial operations, especially as many African mining operations rely on hydrocarbon fuels due to the continent’s limited grid infrastructure. By integrating renewable energy and storage into mining, we reduce carbon footprints, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen long-term energy resilience.
JUWI has already undertaken several notable clean energy projects for mines in Africa. These include Pan African Resources' two projects: a 10 MW solar plant for its Fairview Mine and a 10 MW solar plant at its Evander Mines. Additionally, JUWI successfully developed and built the Sukari Gold Mine project in Egypt, with 36 MW of solar and 7.5 MWh of battery storage. The Castle Wind Project, developed for Sibanye-Stillwater, is another flagship project contributing 89 MW of wind energy to the mining giant’s operations in South Africa. These projects highlight our team’s leadership and expertise in providing solar, wind, and hybrid energy solutions for mining operations across the continent.
A commitment to Senegal’s clean energy future
We’re very pleased that, beyond providing clean energy to the GCO mine, this project also supports Senegal’s ambitious clean energy transition. Senegal is aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 7% by 2025, and projects like ours are vital in meeting this goal. We’re drawing on our extensive experience in delivering solutions across Africa to ensure that this project sets a new benchmark for innovation in the mining sector, demonstrating how solar PV and energy storage can support both sustainability and economic growth.
The future of hybrid energy solutions
We have seen firsthand the benefits of hybrid projects, from reducing reliance on volatile fuel prices to delivering operational resilience, reducing logistical fuel challenges, and lowering costs. As demand for renewable energy continues to rise, we remain dedicated to providing solutions that help our clients achieve their sustainability goals while contributing to Africa’s broader energy transition.
