Exxaro, a group historically active in the mining sector, is developing its renewable energy activities through the acquisition of new power assets in South Africa. This strategy aims to support its industrial operations in response to constraints on the national grid and changes in the energy market. Investments focus on facilities with long-term power purchase agreements that ensure financial stability.
Growing operational capacity
The company recently acquired majority stakes in the Gouda wind farm, with a capacity of 138 megawatts, and in the Sishen solar plant, with a capacity of 75 megawatts. The total value of the transaction is between 1.7 and 1.8 billion rand, equivalent to more than 100 million US dollars. Both facilities sell their electricity to Eskom, the South African public utility, under 20-year power purchase agreements that guarantee a secured long-term outlet.
These acquisitions will increase the net operating capacity of Cennergi, Exxaro’s energy subsidiary, from 200 megawatts to nearly 317 megawatts. The group adds revenues from already operational assets and strengthens its diversification strategy within a market where industrial demand remains high. Integrating these projects also helps to rebalance exposure between mining operations and energy production.
A strategy focused on mine energy autonomy
Developing capacity dedicated to supplying mining sites remains a priority for the group. The Lephalale Solar Project, with a capacity of 68 megawatts, is designed to support power supply at the Grootegeluk mine in order to limit outage risks and maintain operational continuity. This type of project responds to the need for energy security in a context where national grid interruptions are still frequent.
Exxaro targets 1.6 gigawatts of net managed renewable capacity by 2030, reflecting a structural evolution of its business model. The company is gradually strengthening its position as an independent power producer while continuing to operate fossil fuel resources. This trend aligns with international regulatory developments that South African exporters must comply with.
Mining groups in the country are following a similar approach to reduce exposure to power supply issues and gain access to new revenue streams in a transforming market. Exxaro’s investments illustrate these structural changes in the industry and the growing focus on infrastructure capable of sustainably supporting production.
