JUWI Renewable Energies to Build 100 MW Solar PV Plant for Glencore’s Ferrochrome Smelters

JUWI Renewable Energies has announced the development of a 100 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) plant to supply clean energy to Glencore’s ferrochrome smelters in South Africa. This project, undertaken in partnership with Pele Green Energy, represents a major advancement in the decarbonization of the mining sector.

Glencore, a global leader in mining and commodity trading, operates energy-intensive ferrochrome smelters in South Africa that are critical to its production processes. By transitioning to solar energy, Glencore aims to reduce its reliance on coal-based electricity and significantly lower its carbon emissions.

The solar PV plant will be located in the Limpopo Province, an area with excellent solar potential. Once operational, the facility is expected to generate over 220,000 MWh of electricity annually, offsetting approximately 180,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year. This clean energy supply will directly power Glencore’s smelters, enhancing their sustainability while maintaining production efficiency.

“The mining industry plays a pivotal role in South Africa’s economy, and it is encouraging to see leaders like Glencore embracing renewable energy to address climate challenges,” said Richard Doyle, Managing Director of JUWI Renewable Energies. “This project demonstrates the potential of solar energy to transform energy-intensive industries and drive a sustainable future.”

The construction phase will create hundreds of local jobs, contributing to economic development in Limpopo Province. The project will also serve as a model for other mining operations in South Africa, highlighting the feasibility and benefits of integrating renewable energy into industrial processes.

This initiative aligns with South Africa’s Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), which emphasizes the need for renewable energy expansion to reduce emissions and improve energy security. The project will contribute to the IRP’s target of 26 GW of new renewable energy capacity by 2030.

By partnering with JUWI and Pele Green Energy, Glencore is taking a proactive approach to sustainability, demonstrating how the mining sector can play a critical role in South Africa’s clean energy transition. The 100 MW solar PV plant represents not just a step toward decarbonization but also a commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship in one of the country’s most vital industries.