South African mining firms accelerate renewable energy transition

South African mining companies and renewable energy providers are driving a shift toward diversified power sources to reduce reliance on the state utility Eskom. Major firms such as Anglo American and Sibanye Stillwater are accelerating investments in renewable energy to lower costs and meet decarbonisation targets.

Anglo American has partnered with EDF Power Solutions through a joint venture called Envusa Energy. This venture currently generates 520 megawatts of wind and solar power, covering 30% of Anglo’s mining energy consumption, with plans to reach 3,000 MW by 2030. Executives note that while renewables are 20% to 30% cheaper, Eskom-supplied baseload power will remain necessary for years.

In the broader energy sector, women are increasingly occupying influential roles despite the industry remaining male-dominated. Statistics South Africa indicates women hold approximately 37% of jobs in the energy industry. Companies like GoSolr are highlighting female leadership in legal, compliance, and strategic roles as part of the country’s green energy transition.