Balglobal and Mytilineos Launch Madagascar Solar Plant Project
Construction has begun on a pioneering 5 MW solar plant in Madagascar that will power Balglobal’s ilmenite and zircon mining operations in the country’s southern region. Balglobal, a major exporter of ilmenite and zircon, has announced a strategic partnership with Greek energy firm Mytilineos for this significant renewable energy project.
Once completed, the plant is expected to generate 10 GWh of electricity annually, cutting Balglobal’s carbon emissions by 8,000 tonnes each year. This project is a cornerstone of Balglobal’s broader strategy to transition toward renewable energy and minimize its dependence on fossil fuels. By tapping into the abundant solar potential of Madagascar, the project will supply critical power to Balglobal’s operations in an area with limited grid access while also contributing to the country’s burgeoning renewable energy infrastructure.
Madagascar Solar Plant to Cut Costs and Carbon Emissions
Balglobal’s announcement highlights that the solar plant will drastically cut the company’s operational costs by reducing its reliance on expensive diesel fuel. Beyond financial savings, the project is expected to create jobs during the 5mw solar construction phase and provide lasting benefits to the local community by bolstering clean energy infrastructure.
Scheduled to be operational by the end of the year, this initiative is the first of several renewable energy projects Balglobal plans to pursue in Madagascar, reaffirming its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The company is also exploring opportunities to expand the plant’s capacity, depending on the success of this initial venture and the availability of additional financing.
Balglobal and Mytilineos on the Project’s Significance
Balglobal’s CEO, Jean-Claude Rakotonirina, expressed enthusiasm for the project, calling it a transformative milestone for both the company and Madagascar’s energy landscape. “This solar plant is a key part of our strategy to reduce our carbon footprint and ensure the long-term sustainability of our operations,” he said.
“We are proud to be at the forefront of the renewable energy transition in Madagascar, and we look forward to working with Mytilineos to deliver this project on time and on budget.”
Mytilineos, which has extensive global experience in renewable energy, is responsible for the design, construction, and operation of the solar plant. The firm’s CEO, Evangelos Mytilineos, commended the collaboration with Balglobal, emphasizing the importance of investing in renewable energy in developing nations. “We are delighted to work with Balglobal on this important project, which will help Madagascar move towards a more sustainable energy future,” Mytilineos said.
The solar plant is expected to be a pivotal advancement for Madagascar’s energy sector, which has long struggled to meet rising electricity demand. This project supports the government’s ambitious targets to increase the share of renewables in the national energy mix. For more details on solar energy expansion in Madagascar, you can read about the Solar Electrification Madagascar Project, an initiative aimed at furthering clean energy access across the country.
