PV power plant Evander
The first mine to go solar
In the heart of South Africa's mining industry, a revolution in renewable energy began. JUWI, a leader in sustainable energy solutions, has proudly completed a landmark project for PAN African Resources: a 10 MW solar PV renewable energy plant at Evander Gold Mine. This project wasn’t just about power; it's about paving the way for possibility.
Our journey started in 2019 with a vision: to harness the power of the sun to energize one of South Africa’s most vital industries. The concept design and bankable feasibility study laid the groundwork for a venture that was both ambitious and essential. By December 2019, the project received municipal consent, and after a series of engineering studies and regulatory approvals, JUWI South Africa was set to bring this vision to life.
The Evander Mines’ solar plant, commissioned in May 2022, represents a significant step forward. With 26,640 solar modules spanning over 20.1 hectares, the plant promises to supply approximately 30% of Elikhulu’s power requirements during daylight hours. This not only cuts electricity costs but also reduces dependency on the national grid, marking a stride towards energy independence.
As the first utility-scale solar PV renewable energy facility in the South African mining industry, the project required constant innovation and creative problem-solving. JUWI played a pivotal role in developing new grid rules, working alongside the Renewable Energy Technical Evaluation Committee (RETEC) to pave the way for future projects.
The project's environmental and economic impacts are profound. The plant is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by about 26,000 tons annually, contributing to a 5% reduction in group emissions. Economically, the plant, built at a cost of US$10.7 million, anticipates a payback in less than five years, with daily cost savings estimated at R100,000.
We’re grateful that the Elikhulu PV plant is online and operating efficiently. This is not just a project; it's a turning point in South Africa's clean energy transition. For us, mining is about sustainability and going ‘beyond compliance’.
JUWI’s commitment to local communities shone throughout the project. Utilizing 10 local contractors, together with PAN African Resources we created 202 temporary job opportunities. These roles, coupled with potential agricultural projects at the facility, underscore our dedication to sustainable local employment and land utilization.
The Evander Mines’ solar plant stands as a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and community empowerment. It's more than just a renewable energy project; it's a testament to JUWI's vision of a sustainable, efficient, and brighter future for all.
JUWI is not resting on its laurels. We are already at work on a second solar plant for PAN African Resources at their Barberton mine. This 8.75 MW plant is a testament to our ongoing commitment to renewable energy solutions.