THARISA has started receiving wheeled renewable electricity at its South African mine under a long-term supply agreement with Etana Energy.
The first power was delivered in September from a wind project in Mpumalanga and is expected to meet about 10% of the Tharisa Mine’s current monthly electricity demand.
The supply forms part of a power purchase agreement signed in July 2024 under which Etana is forecast to provide about 70% of Tharisa Minerals’ current electricity needs. Wheeled solar power is due to start in the first quarter of 2027, with additional wind supply later that year.
Wheeling allows electricity bought from an independent generator or trader to be transmitted to a customer through the national or municipal grid.
Tharisa said the renewable supply should lower energy costs and reduce Scope 2 emissions, which are indirect emissions linked to purchased electricity. The group is targeting a 30% cut in carbon emissions by 2030.
The existing agreement covers the mine’s open-pit operation. Tharisa expects its underground project to double electricity demand as more mining moves below surface and some diesel use is replaced by electricity.
The company said it was therefore preparing to secure additional renewable power for the mine’s future requirements.