A step towards a greener future: a giant solar power plant is born in Nevada
The energy transition is underway, and Nevada is a key player. Nevada Gold Mines (NGM), operated by Barrick Gold Corporation in partnership with Newmont Corporation, has completed construction of a 200 megawatt solar power plant, marking a major step in reducing carbon emissions.
Read also:
An ambitious project for cleaner energy
There new solar systemlocated on the TS Solar Power Plant site, is part of a series of initiatives aimed at reducing dependence on fossil fuels. During the groundbreaking ceremony, Mark Bristow, President and CEO of Barrick, highlighted the importance of this project to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions of NGM by 8% compared to 2018 levels. This reduction is made possible thanks to the addition of 100 MW of energy capacity in the second phase of project.
The integration of electric vehicles in the mining fleet
NGM’s commitment to the environment does not stop with solar energy. Since 2023, the company has introduced electric vehicles in its light fleet, accompanied by the necessary charging infrastructure. These vehicles are used at several locations, including the Carlin, Cortez, Turquoise Ridge and Phoenix main mines, as well as the TS Power Plant. This initiative is part of NGM’s overall strategy to reduce its carbon footprint.
Promising prospects for the future
NGM does not intend to stop there. The company recently received €95 million in funding from the Department of Energy. USA to develop new solar arrays with battery energy storage systems (BESS) at the turquoise Ridge and Cortez mine sites. These new facilities will act as secondary energy sourcemitigate the effects of interruptions in the electricity grid and increase the consumption of renewable energy in the off-season.
The partnership between Barrick and Newmont: a model for success
Since 2019, Barrick and Newmont have joined forces to create Nevada Gold Mines, the world’s largest gold production complex. This exemplary collaboration has made it possible to pool significant resources and invest in innovative projects such as TS solar system. The success of this partnership illustrates the potential of strategic alliances in the mining industry to achieve ambitious environmental goals.
The challenges ahead in the energy transition
Although the transition to cleaner energy sources is underway, the path is not without pitfalls. Risks associated with extreme weather events, geopolitical tensions and fluctuations in commodity markets remain major challenges for the mining industry. In addition integration of renewable technologies on a large scale requires significant investment and careful planning.
Towards a sustainable energy model
The NGM solar power plant is a significant step towards this energy model more sustainable in the mining industry. By reducing its dependence on fossil fuels and investing in renewable technologiesNGM is an example of a company that is actively engaged in the fight against climate change. The initiative is part of a wider trend within the industry, where more companies are adopting more environmentally friendly practices.
The decisive role of investments in the energy future
Projects like NGM in Nevada are essential to accelerating the energy transition. They show that investments in renewable energy can not only reduce the carbon footprint of industries, but also provide economic and social benefits. As other countries and companies consider similar projects, Nevada may well become a model for one more sustainable energy future.
France invests 1.5 billion euros in what could very well be the future “green gold”
This article explores how Nevada Gold Mines took a bold step toward sustainability by building a 200 MW solar power plant. This initiative, which significantly reduces CO2 emissions, shows the way forward for the mining industry and may well inspire other companies around the world to adopt more environmentally friendly energy practices.
Source: Nevada Gold Mines press release