Global technology firm ABB Electrification and renewable energy producer Voltalia are set to deliver a comprehensive switchgear and circuit breaker solution to the Tasiast 24k mining project in Mauritania.
The expansion project aims to reduce emissions of the Tasiast mine – operated by a subsidiary of Canada’s Kinross Gold Corporation – by incorporating renewable energy sources into its operations.
Collaborating with Voltalia for systems integration and value chain support, ABB’s involvement includes the integration of a 34 MW photovoltaic solar plant and 18 MW battery system to provide around 20% of the site’s power.
The solar component is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 530 kt over the mine’s lifespan, which could save approximately 180 million liters of fuel over the same period.
The solution involves the deployment of 15 SF6-free and robust UniGear ZS2 air-insulated switchgear panels, offering advantages such as a smaller ecological footprint and easy maintenance and assembly, along with a voltage transformer.
Additionally, ABB will provide 13 VD4 vacuum circuit breakers, known for minimizing maintenance and downtime, while enhancing safety and ensuring primary and secondary protection. ABB’s space-saving and SF6-free switchgear and circuit breakers are instrumental in providing a continuous power supply for the solar plant, helping to meet growing demand for sustainable energy solutions in the mining sector.
