Richards Bay Minerals & Voltalia Bolobedu Solar Project: Powering Mining Decarbonisation in South Africa

A 148MW solar facility supplying Richards Bay Minerals marks a significant step in integrating renewable energy into mining operations, improving energy security while accelerating emissions reduction across South Africa’s resource sector.

Key Project Facts

• Total installed capacity of 148 megawatts
• 300 Gigawatt-hours per year
• Helping reduce CO₂ emissions by more than 237,000 tonnes annually
• During construction, around 800 residents from the three host communities were employed, including 56% youth and 21% women

Commissioning Milestone for Mining-Focused Renewable Energy

Voltalia has confirmed the full commissioning of the Bolobedu solar power plant in Limpopo province, delivering a large-scale renewable energy solution directly aligned to mining sector demand.

With an installed capacity of 148MW, the project is one of the largest in South Africa dedicated to a single industrial off-taker via a wheeling agreement through the national grid operated by Eskom.

The plant will generate approximately 300GWh annually, supplying power under a long-term corporate power purchase agreement (CPPA) to Richards Bay Minerals, a subsidiary of Rio Tinto and a global producer of heavy mineral sands.

Decarbonisation and Energy Security for Mining Operations

The project is expected to reduce carbon emissions by more than 237,000 tonnes per year, highlighting the growing role of renewables in helping mining companies meet decarbonisation targets while mitigating exposure to grid instability.

Robert Klein, Chief Executive Officer of Voltalia, stated: “The full commissioning of Bolobedu, the first large-scale photovoltaic project of this kind developed in South Africa for a private client, illustrates our commitment to accelerating the decarbonisation of industries and supporting an inclusive energy transition in the country, in close partnership with local communities.”

For mining operators, the model demonstrates how wheeled renewable energy can provide both cost predictability and supply resilience—two increasingly critical factors in energy-intensive operations.

Strategic Value for Richards Bay Minerals

For Richards Bay Minerals, the project supports both operational continuity and long-term sustainability goals as it expands production capacity.

Werner Duvenhage, Managing Director of RBM, added: “The commissioning of the Bolobedu Solar Farm is a defining moment for RBM as we celebrate 50 years of operations in South Africa. This initiative is not just about energy security, but also about the long-term sustainability of our mining operations. As we break ground on Zulti South, this initiative paves the way for a cleaner energy future, contributing to both the national power grid and our global decarbonization targets.”

Scaling “Power-to-Mine” Models Across Africa

The Bolobedu project also reflects a wider shift toward integrated “power-to-mine” solutions, combining renewables, grid access and long-term PPAs to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

This approach is being accelerated through Voltalia’s partnership with the International Finance Corporation, aimed at scaling renewable energy deployment across mining operations in Africa. The initiative focuses on hybrid systems, including storage, to further enhance reliability and flexibility.

Local Impact and Workforce Development

Beyond energy supply, the project has delivered measurable socio-economic benefits. Around 800 local residents were employed during construction, with a strong focus on youth and female participation. Training programmes in installation, engineering support and health and safety have contributed to building local technical capacity.

It has also supported the development of local supply chains, including transport services and small business participation, alongside a unique ownership structure involving local women investors.