Aggreko has signed a long-term power purchase agreement with Harmony Gold to develop what is expected to be Australia’s largest off-grid renewable hybrid power facility at the Eva Copper Mine in Northwest Queensland.
The agreement, which will run for at least 15 years, places full responsibility for the project on Aggreko, covering the design, construction, ownership, and operation of the power system. The initiative aims to provide a reliable and efficient energy supply while significantly reducing emissions typically linked to remote mining operations.
The project will combine multiple energy sources into a single hybrid system. It includes a 104 MVA thermal power plant, a solar installation with a minimum capacity of 119 MWp, and a 250 MWh battery energy storage system. This mix of technologies is designed to ensure continuous and stable power for the mine, even during periods when solar generation is low or unavailable.
Aggreko’s Managing Director, George Whyte, described the development as a major milestone in off-grid energy solutions. He highlighted that the integration of solar, battery storage, and thermal generation at such a large scale represents a shift in how energy is delivered to remote industrial sites. The project is also expected to demonstrate how sustainable solutions can align with the operational demands of heavy industries.
Both companies are also planning for the future expansion of renewable energy capacity at the site. Potential upgrades may include the addition of wind power and possible connections to wider transmission networks. This approach is intended to keep the energy system flexible and capable of adapting to evolving technologies and long-term operational needs.
The project reflects a growing trend toward cleaner energy use in the mining sector and marks an important step in advancing sustainable practices in Australia’s remote resource regions.
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
