In the absence of a modern reliable regional power grid, various mining companies have installed up to 20 MW of diesel power as standby for load shedding, which cost them far more than any solar or hybrid installation.
"PV electricity can cost up to 50-60% less than diesel in remote locations"
Research by THEnergy, a consulting firm, revealed diesel price in Africa is highly variable and strongly influenced by three main factors: transport, theft and taxes. In many cases, the retail diesel price makes up for less than 50% of the total fuel price, and PV electricity in remote locations can cost 50-60% less than diesel electricity.
"IHS, Africa’s leading telecom provider, opened the largest solar powered cell site for mobile phone operators."
This doesn’t apply only to mining companies, but is true for all intensive energy users in sub-saharan Africa. IHS, Africa's leading independent mobile telecommunications infrastructure provider, recently opened Africa’s largest solar powered cell site for mobile phone operators. They calculated that simply replacing diesel generators with solar panels can cut the monthly cost of operating masts by almost one-third, and the long-term plan is to have 90% of IHS’ 900 mobile towers in Africa powered by solar energy.
"20+ intensive energy users will take part in Solar/Diesel Africa"
Solar/Diesel Africa is a unique deal-making event that connects 20+ intensive African energy users eager to reduce their fuel consumption with 100+ international hybrid solar solution providers, financiers, investors and other stakeholders looking to realize cost-saving projects with mines and other high energy consuming industries. This unique event will take place March 4 at the Hilton Sandton in Johannesburg. Registration is open now at www.solardieselafrica.com/registration