Tropicana Gold Mine, located in remote Western Australia, is set to undergo a significant transformation as Pacific Energy secures the contract to integrate 62MW of clean energy into the existing power system. The expansion project, which encompasses four 6MW wind turbines, a 24MW solar farm, and a 14MW battery storage system, aims to reduce reliance on hydrocarbons and propel the mine towards a more sustainable future. The innovative intelligent control system, developed in-house by Pacific Energy, will optimize the integration of renewable energy and storage technologies, allowing for prolonged periods of hydrocarbon-free operation.
Under the 10-year build-own-operate agreement, Pacific Energy will deliver the renewable expansion of the power system, making it the largest off-grid hybrid investment in the company's portfolio. Additionally, it will become the largest off-grid gas-wind-solar-battery storage facility in Australia's resources sector, further solidifying Pacific Energy's position as a leader in clean energy solutions.
See also: MPIC to Acquire 42.82% Stake in Solar Philippines Power Project Holdings
The Tropicana gold mine, jointly owned by AngloGold Ashanti Australia Ltd (70% and manager) and Regis Resources Ltd (30%), will greatly benefit from this environmentally conscious initiative. It aligns with AngloGold Ashanti's commitment to reducing its global net carbon emissions from energy use by 30% by 2030, in line with its roadmap to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050.
The integration of renewables is expected to yield substantial reductions in diesel and gas consumption for power generation at Tropicana, reaching an impressive 96% and 50% reduction, respectively. As a result, carbon emissions will be slashed by an average of 65,000 tonnes per year over the duration of the agreement. This significant decrease in emissions showcases the project's pivotal role in contributing to a more sustainable future.
Pacific Energy's Chief Executive, Jamie Cullen, expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, highlighting the company's commitment to delivering reliable and efficient power solutions while supporting clients in decarbonizing their operations. Cullen emphasized Pacific Energy's success in providing hydrocarbon-free power to mine sites in Australia, positioning the company as a key player in the industry.
See also: Oman Electricity Transmission Company to Connect 2.25 GW of Renewable Energy to Grid by 2026
The execution of this project, poised to be Australia's most remote large-scale hybrid power system, will be led by Pacific Energy's Remote Energy and Integrated Renewables divisions. The company's comprehensive capabilities will be fully utilized, with the battery storage system, high-voltage switch room, and PV ring main units manufactured in-house at their facilities in Western Australia.
Site works are expected to commence in July of this year, with the project slated for completion in early 2025. This ambitious endeavor marks a significant step forward in sustainable energy integration, further propelling the mining industry toward a greener and more environmentally responsible future.
