Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston congratulated Gold Road Resources on its new renewable energy system, while visiting the company’s Yamarna exploration camp 200 kilometres east of Laverton.
The high-tech system includes a 187kW solar photovoltaic array and a 408kWh TESVOLT lithium energy storage hub. The solar field will include up to 580 solar panels with 60 cells each.
Gold Road’s solar hub will offset around 70 per cent of the camp’s diesel consumption, reduce carbon emissions and limit supply risks such as the restricted fuel deliveries that occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The system has minimal impact on the environment, is modular to assist future expansion and is relatively easy to move.
Minister Johnston also visited the nearby Gruyere gold project, a 50:50 joint venture between Gold Road and Gold Fields.
The joint venture recently committed to installing a 4MW gas engine, a 13MW solar farm and a 4.4 MWh battery energy storage system in 2021.
The new hybrid microgrid will increase the mine’s power capacity, reduce costs and increase plant output.
As stated by Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston:
“I commend Gold Road Resources and Gold Fields for adopting these innovative new technologies.
“Western Australia is leading the way in deploying renewable energy systems in the resources industry, which is further supporting our global reputation as an innovative mining jurisdiction.
“The McGowan Government is fully supportive of mining companies embracing renewable energy technologies, and is committed to transitioning to a low carbon future.”
