The energy transition is a major challenge of our time. In a context where oil resources are running out and energy costs are rising, it is essential to find sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives. It is with this in mind that Kibali, a giant in the mining industry specializing in the production of gold, has decided to engage in the transition to renewable energies.
Over the years, Kibali has invested in the construction of hydroelectric and solar power plants to meet the energy needs of mining companies in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Thanks to these efforts, the company succeeded in bridging the energy deficit and reducing its dependence on fossil fuels.
Among Kibali’s achievements is the construction of four power plants, three of which are hydroelectric and one is solar. The Nzoro hydropower plant, with a capacity of about 22 MW, was commissioned between 2015 and 2017. It increased the share of hydroelectric power to about 55%. In 2017, the Ambarau hydroelectric power plant, with a capacity of 11 MW, was inaugurated. Then, in 2018, the Azambi hydroelectric plant, also with a capacity of 11 MW, was added, thus increasing the share of hydroelectricity to around 70%.
In addition to these plants, Kibali also implemented a battery energy storage system in 2020, increasing the use of renewable energy to 79%. And that’s not all, the company also plans to build a solar power plant by 2025, which will further contribute to the diversification of energy sources.
These initiatives by Kibali are to be welcomed, as they demonstrate the importance of the energy transition in the mining sector. By exploiting the considerable energy potential of the Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly in terms of hydropower, mining companies can contribute to improving access to electricity, particularly in rural areas.
If other players in the mining sector follow Kibali’s lead and invest in hydroelectric and solar power plants, the DRC could truly take a step forward in its energy transition and benefit from greater energy stability and autonomy.
The energy transition is therefore an opportunity to seize for mining companies in the DRC, and Kibali is setting an example by demonstrating that it is possible to reconcile economic development and respect for the environment. Hopefully others will follow this example and help build a sustainable energy future for the country.
Sources:
https://fatshimetrie.org/blog/2023/07/13/kibali-goldmines-une-production-en-raise-et-un-plan-decennal-promiseur-pour-la-plus-grande-mine-dor- from africa/
https://fatshimetry.org/blog/2023/07/13/les-leopards-de-la-rdc-defendent-leur-titre-face-aux-redoutables-dtigers-du-nigeria-un-quarter-final-thrilling-en -perspective/
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