Aggreko has embarked on a significant expansion of renewable energy and battery storage at the Granny Smith mine in Western Australia, operated by Gold Fields. This latest development is part of an ongoing effort aimed at integrating renewable energy sources into the mine’s power infrastructure, reducing its carbon footprint, and cutting power costs. Nearly eight years ago, Aggreko launched a decarbonization project by replacing an older diesel power station with a modern gas-fueled reciprocating engine station. Building on this project, in 2019, they boosted the mine’s capability by adding 7.7 MWp of solar power and a 2 MW/1 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS). Now, in 2024, Aggreko plans to expand further by increasing the solar farm and BESS, which is set to significantly enhance the mine’s renewable energy fraction and overall energy efficiency.
Decarbonization Efforts and Initial Projects
Back in 2016, Aggreko was contracted to build, own, and operate the power station at Granny Smith mine. Since then, the company has been unwavering in its mission to collaborate with Gold Fields to modernize and decarbonize the mine’s power sources. The scheduled expansion in 2024 aims to elevate the solar power capacity to a total of 19 MW, along with 9 MW/4.5 MWh of BESS. This upgrade is expected to achieve a renewable energy fraction of roughly 21%, leading to an annual saving of 443,304 GJ of gas and a reduction of CO2 emissions by 22,843 metric tons. These considerable savings and emission reductions underscore the synergy between renewable energy integration and aggressive decarbonization strategies in mining operations.
Aggreko’s goals for reducing its environmental impact are ambitious, aligning with its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategy. By 2030, the company aims for a 30% reduction in the emission intensity of its energy solutions. Moreover, by 2035, Aggreko plans to achieve net zero emissions from its facilities and operations. Beyond environmental stipulations, Aggreko is also dedicated to fostering skills, empowering communities, and adhering to ethical and transparent business practices. These initiatives reflect a broader commitment not just to environmental sustainability but also to social responsibility and governance standards.
Forward-Thinking Energy Solutions
The expansion of the solar farm at Granny Smith mine is in perfect alignment with Gold Fields’ forward-thinking energy strategy, which includes conducting a pre-feasibility study to supply 75% of the mine’s energy needs from renewable sources. The plan involves increasing solar capacity further, expanding the BESS, and introducing a wind farm to diversify energy production. Mark Glazebrook, General Manager of Granny Smith, emphasized that the improved hybrid power station will not only lower operational costs and boost energy reliability but also reaffirm Gold Fields’ dedication to accelerating the use of renewable energy across its sites. This comprehensive approach promises long-term sustainability and operational efficiency, serving as a model for integrating renewable energy in the mining industry.
In 2019, Granny Smith mine broke new ground by being among Australia’s first mines to integrate a significant portion of renewable energy. Since then, the solar power system combined with BESS has generated around 48 GWh of clean energy, preventing the release of approximately 25 million tons of CO2 emissions. This achievement testifies to Aggreko’s pioneering role in microgrid hybridization, showcasing the company’s significant contributions to sustainable energy solutions. The success realized at the Granny Smith mine sets a notable precedent for other mining operations seeking to transition towards greener energy alternatives.
Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation
The expansion of the solar farm at Granny Smith mine fits perfectly with Gold Fields’ progressive energy strategy, which includes a pre-feasibility study to meet 75% of the mine’s power needs through renewable sources. The plan aims to further boost solar capacity, expand the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), and add a wind farm to diversify energy production. Mark Glazebrook, General Manager of Granny Smith, highlighted that the enhanced hybrid power station will reduce operational costs, enhance energy reliability, and demonstrate Gold Fields’ commitment to accelerating renewable energy use across its sites. This integrated approach ensures long-term sustainability and efficiency, serving as a model for renewable energy in mining.
In 2019, Granny Smith mine became one of Australia’s first mines to incorporate a substantial amount of renewable energy. The solar power system combined with BESS has since produced around 48 GWh of clean energy, averting the release of approximately 25 million tons of CO2 emissions. This feat underscores Aggreko’s pioneering role in microgrid hybridization and its significant contributions to sustainable energy solutions. The success at Granny Smith sets a notable example for other mining operations transitioning to greener energy alternatives.
