Press Release: Suntrace and BayWa r.e. complete largest off-grid solar-battery hybrid system for mining industry

Suntrace GmbH and BayWa r.e., together with B2Gold Corp. (CA), have completed commissioning of the world’s largest off-grid solar-battery hybrid system for the mining industry, at the Fekola gold mine in Mali, Africa. A landmark project which is expected to pave the way for more sustainable power generation within the mining industry in West Africa. The hybrid system was integrated and commissioned successfully with the existing HFO fired thermal engine plant as fuel saver. Ideally suited to their needs, B2Gold approved implementation in 2019, following preliminary studies by Suntrace and BayWa r.e. The integration of the 30 MW solar power plant with a 15.4 MWh battery storage ensures safe and reliable power, covering up to 75% of the mine's electricity demand during daytime. The PV-battery system enables savings of 13.1 million litres of heavy fuel oil (HFO) and helps to reduce CO2 emissions by 39 000 tonnes per year. Services rendered: • Detailed Engineering of PV Plant including plant layout • Engineering and specification of Battery Storage System and all related functionalities (grid stability support, engine management, smoothing of PV plant, energy reserves etc.) • Development of Hybrid controller concept, to align existing power plant SCADA with PV park controller and Battery storage management system • Electrical network modeling (Grid Study) • Procurement support: Technical Specifications, select qualified suppliers, obtaining quotes for all components and recommend for procurement through Client, support contract negotiations • Specify testing requirements and quality assurance during manufacturing, installation and commissioning • Project Schedule, Budget Monitoring and support construction planning • Monitor & supervise construction and commissioning and testing activities • Coordination of equipment suppliers, B2Gold corporate (procurement, logistics, financing), and project management (site works, site management, electrical and control aspects