Name of the Project
Eskom, Exxaro and Seriti Resources renewable-energy projects.

Location
South Africa.

Project Owner/s
Eskom, Exxaro and Seriti Resources signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on October 25, 2021, to pursue, cooperatively and individually, the development of renewable-energy projects to lower their carbon footprint at their operations.

Project Description
Exxaro and Seriti are the biggest coal suppliers to Eskom, contributing an estimated 80% of Eskom’s coal supply a year.

By implementing renewable-energy solutions at their Eskom-tied mines and at related Eskom sites, Seriti and Exxaro aim to achieve carbon reduction and cost savings in the generation and use of electricity at these operations. This is symbiotic, with Eskom’s mandate to provide electricity in an efficient and sustainable manner, which includes decarbonising its supply chain.

Phase 1 of the envisaged project pipeline will result in the construction of several solar photovoltaic facilities on-mine and at Eskom sites. These may be behind-the-meter solutions (off grid) or wheeled solutions, or combinations of the two. Further projects envisaged may include energy storage and, possibly, wind energy facilities.

Under the MoU, Seriti envisages achieving a reduction in carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions of up to 350 000 t/y, about half of its current emissions of 700 000 t of CO₂-equivalent through coal-fired electricity generation.

Exxaro envisages achieving a reduction in CO₂ emissions of up to 130 000 t/y at its Matla coal mine, which represents a saving of 70% of the greenhouse gases with Matla at full production.

Potential Job Creation
Not stated.

Capital Expenditure
Not stated.

Planned Start/End Date
The companies have committed to start the projects as soon as possible, subject to regulatory approvals.

Latest Developments
None stated.

Key Contracts, Suppliers and Consultants
None stated.

Contact Details for Project Information
Eskom, Sikonathi Mantshantsha, cell +27 83276 0606.
Exxaro, Mzila Mthenjane, cell +27 83417 6375 or Tsabeng Ntithe, cell +27 76371 6810.
Seriti Resources, Alan Fine, cell + 27 83250 0757 or Charmane Russell, cell +27 82372 5816.