Dr Carol Bell, chair of the Tharisa climate change and sustainability committee
This is the result of a long-term Power Purchase Agreement with Etana Energy, which is expected to provide up to 44% of the Tharisa Mine’s electricity energy. With the on stream timeline set for 2026, the wheeled energy will complement the mine’s 40 MW solar power plant, which is being developed, and result in 76% of Tharisa Minerals‘ energy needs being provided by renewable energy.
“This second major renewable energy project is the natural progression in our quest to reduce our reliance on fossil fuel driven energy, and a major component of creating the sustainable resources company of the future,” said Lucien Matthews, executive special projects at Tharisa.
Dr Carol Bell, chairperson of the Tharisa climate change and sustainability committee and lead independent non-executive director, previously noted, “The mining industry has a great deal to contribute to a more sustainable world not only as a supplier of the required metals but also as a source of employment and broader economic benefits for the communities in which it operates.”
“What has been achieved over the past year shows real evidence of the commitment Tharisa has to a just transition away from fossil fuels, which through continuous innovation, has the potential to contribute beyond the decarbonisation of its own activities,” she added.
It is expected that the transaction will enable the Tharisa Mine to better manage its power costs, benefit from the renewable energy certificates and support Tharisa Minerals’ drive to reduce its carbon footprint by 30% by 2030.
Etana was granted an energy trading licence in May 2022 for a period of 25 years.
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