Hitachi Energy Powers Geita Gold Mine with Cleaner, Low-Carbon Energy
▼ Summary
– Hitachi Energy has deployed a power quality solution to connect Tanzania’s Geita Gold Mine to the national grid, which is powered 45.5% by renewable energy.
– The project replaces 80% of the mine’s diesel generators and is expected to reduce its carbon emissions by at least 50 kilotons of CO2 per year.
– A key component is the PCS 6000 STATCOM system, a power electronic converter that stabilizes the grid connection and is the first of its kind in Africa.
– Hitachi Energy provided local supervision and training in Tanzania to build local capacity and ensure the project’s long-term success.
– This collaboration between AngloGold Ashanti, the Tanzanian government, TANESCO, and Hitachi Energy is a landmark achievement for sustainability in the mining industry.
A major step toward sustainable mining has been achieved at AngloGold Ashanti’s Geita Gold Mine in Tanzania, which is now connected to the national power grid. This transition, supported by a cutting-edge power quality solution from Hitachi Energy, means the mine will draw over 45 percent of its electricity from renewable sources. The project is set to dramatically cut diesel consumption by 80 percent, leading to significant operational savings and an estimated annual reduction of 50 kilotons in carbon dioxide emissions.
The collaboration involved the Tanzanian government, the national utility TANESCO, and Hitachi Energy to ensure a successful grid connection. Central to this achievement is the deployment of the PCS 6000 STATCOM system, a sophisticated power electronic converter that maintains grid stability. This technology is the first of its kind deployed on the African continent. The system’s performance is enhanced by MicroSCADA technology, which provides essential real-time monitoring and control capabilities for optimal operation.
Beyond the technical delivery, Hitachi Energy placed a strong emphasis on local capacity building. The company provided supervision and comprehensive training to local contractors, fostering skills development and contributing to community upliftment. This approach ensures the long-term sustainability of the project while strengthening the regional industrial ecosystem.
Mohamed Hosseiny, Managing Director at Hitachi Energy in Africa, commented on the project’s significance. He highlighted AngloGold Ashanti’s commitment to sustainability and climate resilience, noting that the initiative sets a remarkable standard for the industry. The use of pioneering technologies like the STATCOM system is crucial for advancing a sustainable energy future.
The PCS 6000 STATCOM was delivered as a fully tested, containerized solution, allowing for rapid installation even in the challenging environment of a remote gold mine. Its compact and robust design makes it an ideal solution for industrial applications where grid reliability is paramount. Electrification solutions such as this are vital for accelerating the global energy transition, helping to create energy systems that are more sustainable, secure, and resilient.
(Source: MEA Tech Watch)
