Mining group Exxaro is forming a separate company to develop a wide range of projects, including a R7,5bn concentrated solar power (CSP) plant near its Grootegeluk coalmine in Lephalale, Limpopo. The mine, which supplies Eskom’s neighbouring Matimba power station, is being expanded to supply coal to the utility’s new Medupi plant in the area.
Exxaro hopes to commission its 22 MW CSP plant in two phases of 110 MW each by 2014 or 2015, according to Ernst Venter, executive general manager for business growth.
If development of coalbed methane reserves proves viable, Exxaro could also use gas in the CSP plant as a feedstock at times when the sun is not shining. Coupled with storage, this would enable the plant to rival a coal-based power station’s ability to generate round-the-clock electricity.
Exxaro’s main aim is to sell electricity into the national grid, but power from its CSP plant could also be dispatched to its mining operations.
Financial Mail, 15 October 2010
