AfrElec: Anglo American, EDF Renewables to develop renewable energy in South Africa

Anglo American has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with EDF Renewables to co-operate in developing a regional renewable energy ecosystem (RREE) in South Africa.

This is expected to be designed to meet Anglo American’s operational electricity requirements in South Africa through the supply of 100% renewable electricity by 2030, supporting local electricity supply systems and wider energy decarbonisation.

Anglo American said it has already secured 100% renewable electricity supply for all its operations in South America, with 56% of its global grid supply expected to be sourced from renewables by 2023. South Africa has an abundance of renewable energy sources such as wind and solar, but a limited renewables infrastructure to harness it.

“As Anglo American progresses towards its 2040 target of carbon-neutral operations, this partnership with EDF Renewables is designed to abate the largest single source of its Scope 2 emissions, being its current grid supply in South Africa. The RREE aims to support South Africa’s decarbonisation ambitions and the country’s Just Energy Transition, creating a sustainable and inclusive future,” the company said in a press release.