Nevada Gold Mines (NGM), a joint venture between Barrick and Newmont Corp., has reached a significant milestone in its sustainability efforts with the completion of the second phase of a 200-megawatt solar power plant. This solar facility, located at NGM’s TS Power Plant, is expected to produce 17 percent of the company’s annual power demand while reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 234 Kt per year.
Commitment to Sustainability
Mark Bristow, Barrick’s president and chief executive, emphasized the importance of the solar facility in reducing NGM’s environmental impact. He stated that the solar plant is just one of many initiatives aimed at decreasing the company’s reliance on carbon-based electricity sources. In addition to the solar project, NGM is in the process of transitioning its TS Power Plant to utilize cleaner burning natural gas as a fuel source. Furthermore, the company has introduced electric vehicles to its light vehicle fleet, with charging infrastructure installed at various mine sites and the TS Power Plant.
Bristow highlighted the company’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, stating that the solar facility alone will contribute to an 8 percent reduction in NGM’s total annual emissions compared to a 2018 baseline. With the completion of the second phase of the TS Solar Power Plant earlier this year, NGM’s carbon reduction efforts are expected to continue as the company explores co-firing capability and investigates the potential of geothermal energy sources at the TS Power Plant.
Expansion Plans and Funding
NGM recently secured $95 million in funding from the U.S. Department of Energy to develop additional solar facilities with battery energy storage systems (BESS) at the Turquoise Ridge and Cortez mine sites. These new facilities are intended to serve as a secondary power source, helping to mitigate the impacts of power grid disruptions and enhance renewable energy consumption during off-peak hours. The funding demonstrates the government’s support for NGM’s sustainability initiatives and commitment to reducing carbon emissions.
The integration of solar power and battery storage technology aligns with NGM’s long-term sustainability goals and commitment to environmental stewardship. By investing in renewable energy infrastructure, NGM aims to reduce its carbon footprint, lower operational costs, and contribute to a cleaner energy future for the mining industry.
Industry Impact and Future Outlook
NGM’s transition to renewable energy sources is a significant development in the mining industry, demonstrating a shift towards more sustainable practices and reduced environmental impact. As one of the largest gold mining operations in Nevada, NGM’s commitment to sustainability sets a positive example for other companies in the sector to follow.
Looking ahead, NGM plans to continue exploring innovative solutions to further reduce its carbon footprint and enhance its sustainability efforts. By leveraging renewable energy technologies, such as solar power and battery storage, NGM aims to improve operational efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and contribute to a more environmentally conscious mining industry.
In conclusion, Nevada Gold Mines’ operational solar power plant marks a significant step towards achieving its sustainability goals and reducing its environmental footprint. Through strategic investments in renewable energy infrastructure and ongoing efforts to minimize carbon emissions, NGM is leading the way in sustainable mining practices and setting a positive example for the industry as a whole.