Aggreko has signed a long-term agreement with Harmony Gold to develop a large hybrid power project for the Eva Copper Mine in Queensland. The agreement, which will run for 15 years, marks an important step toward cleaner and more reliable energy use in remote mining operations. The project is expected to become the largest off-grid renewable energy facility in Australia.
The planned power system will combine different energy sources to ensure a continuous electricity supply at the mine. At the core of the project is a solar power plant with a capacity of 118 MWp. This will be supported by a battery energy storage system of 250 MWh, which will help store excess solar energy and supply power when sunlight is not available. In addition, a 104 MVA thermal power plant will be installed to maintain stability and provide backup when needed. This mix of solar, battery, and thermal generation will help meet the heavy and consistent energy demand required for mining activities.
The hybrid setup is designed to increase the use of renewable energy while maintaining reliability. By using solar power and battery storage as primary sources, the project will reduce the dependence on fossil fuels. This is expected to lower carbon emissions and also cut fuel costs over the life of the mine. The approach shows how renewable energy can be integrated into industries that traditionally rely on conventional power sources.
According to George Whyte, Managing Director of Aggreko for the Australia Pacific region, the project sets a new benchmark for off-grid energy solutions in the global mining sector. The scale and design of the system highlight how advanced energy technologies can support large industrial operations even in remote areas.
The project is also likely to benefit nearby communities such as Cloncurry and Mount Isa. It is expected to create employment opportunities during construction and operation, while also supporting local businesses.
This development aligns with Aggreko’s broader target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2035. There are also discussions about expanding the project in the future by adding wind energy or connecting it to the national grid. Overall, the Eva Copper Mine project demonstrates how the mining industry can adopt cleaner energy solutions without affecting operational efficiency.
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