Chariot and Total Eren’s Copper Mine Solar Agreement Project
Chariot Green Hydrogen and Total Eren have solidified a landmark 20-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with Manono Lithium, a subsidiary of AVZ Minerals. This partnership is set to develop a 168 MWp solar plant and a 70 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This ambitious project reflects a growing trend in the mining sector towards adopting renewable energy to power operations sustainably.
The Manono Lithium and Tin Project, located 500 km north of Lubumbashi, is one of the largest undeveloped hard rock lithium projects worldwide. The development phase is anticipated to last approximately 20 months, with operations projected to begin in the first half of 2026.
Environmental Impact of the Copper Mine Solar Agreement
The solar project is poised to make a significant environmental impact by providing renewable energy to power mining operations, thereby reducing the Manono Project’s carbon footprint and aligning with global sustainability goals. Laurent Chevalier, Total Eren’s executive vice president for Africa, Asia, and Oceania, emphasized the project’s importance in advancing renewable energy integration into mining operations, noting that it sets a precedent for other mining projects both regionally and globally.
“We are delighted to support the Manono Lithium and Tin Project with a reliable, competitive, and sustainable renewable energy solution. Our partnership with Chariot and AVZ Minerals exemplifies our commitment to Africa and to decarbonizing the African mining sector. We are proud to be playing a part in the energy transition by helping to power the Manono Project with renewable energy,” said Chevalier.
Chariot’s Renewable Energy Growth Through Copper Mine Solar Agreement
This successful collaboration with Manono Lithium marks a pivotal moment in the mining industry’s transition towards sustainable energy sources. By reducing the carbon footprint of mining operations, Chariot Green Hydrogen’s involvement underscores its commitment to expanding its renewable energy portfolio. The company’s focus on renewable power generation, green hydrogen production, and emerging market investments aligns with the global movement towards decarbonization and sustainable development.
This project is part of a broader industry trend toward integrating renewable energy solutions. As more companies recognize the benefits, the mining sector will increasingly invest in solar, wind, and other renewable energy technologies.
Future Outlook of the Copper Mine Solar Agreement
As the world shifts towards renewable energy, the mining industry will play a crucial role in supplying the necessary raw materials. Projects like the Manono solar plant demonstrate how mining companies can lead by example, integrating renewable energy solutions to power their operations sustainably.
The success of this initiative is likely to inspire other mining companies to explore similar ventures, furthering global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable development. As renewable energy becomes more cost-effective and accessible, its integration into mining operations will become increasingly common, accelerating the industry’s transformation towards sustainability.