Vivo Energy has announced the completion of a hybrid solar power plant at the Nampala gold mine in Mali. The power plant has an electricity production capacity of 3.9 MWp, and will supply power under an agreement with Nampala mine owner Robex Resources Inc.
“We are proud to have introduced solar power into our Nampala mine, and have been thrilled with the professionalism and dedication of our partners at Vivo Energy,” said Benjamin Cohen, CEO of Robex Resources.
Robex also signed an exclusivity agreement with Vivo Energy for the provision of a further hybrid solar and thermal power solution to the Kiniero gold mine in Guinea, owned by Sycamore Mining. Robex is currently in the process of merging with Sycamore Mining, following completion of the closing conditions and approval of the Toronto Stock Exchange.
“We continue to work on closing the Sycamore Mining merger and, following the success of the Nampala project, the two groups have signed an agreement with Vivo Energy to develop a hybrid solar energy solar solution that will provide in excess of 40% of the power requirements for the Kiniero mine in Guinea, displacing 27,000 tonnes of CO2 per year,” Cohen added.
Reducing emissions of Nampala mine
The solar hybrid power plant by will help Nampala mine reduce the carbon footprint of the mine by around 60,000 tonnes over ten years, while making a material reduction in the mine’s cost of energy.
“Through these actions Robex Resources continues to contribute to the modernisation of mining practices,” said Benjamin Cohen, CEO of Robex Resources.
Commenting on the project, Stan Mittelman, CEO of Vivo Energy said: “A world-class team comprising Vivo Energy, Robex Resources, and our EPC contractor, Sterling and Wilson overcame the challenges, restrictions and logistical complexities brought by the pandemic and the socio-political situation to deliver this project on budget.”
Khadidiatou Fall, Managing Director, Vivo Energy Mali added: “Our mining customers are always looking for ways to reduce their operational costs and increase their sustainability. I am proud of the huge contribution my team made to the successful completion of this hybrid solar / fuel solution to help our customer Robex Resources achieve their objectives.”
