Pacific Energy To Develop 35-MW Solar Park in Australia

• Pacific Energy powers a green future with a 35-MW solar park at Gold Fields' St Ives mine, driving renewable energy innovation and reducing emissions in Western Australia.

Pacific Energy has been contracted to design and construct a 35-MW solar park for Gold Fields at the St Ives gold mine in Western Australia's Eastern Goldfields. Located approximately 80 km south of Kalgoorlie, the solar park will contribute to a larger renewable energy hub at the site. Design work is underway, with civil works set to begin next month, and the facility is expected to be operational by 2026.

Gold Fields plans to develop a AUD 296 million (USD 198.5 million) renewable energy complex at the mine, which will include the solar park and 42 MW of wind turbine capacity. This complex aims to fulfill over 70% of the mine's power needs and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 50% by 2030.

How will the new solar park impact Gold Fields' sustainability goals and energy needs?

• Alignment with Sustainability Goals: The new solar park directly supports Gold Fields' commitment to sustainability by providing a significant renewable energy source that helps meet their environmental targets.
• Reduction in Carbon Footprint: By contributing to a reduction of approximately 50% in carbon dioxide emissions by 2030, the solar park aids in mitigating climate change impacts and supports local and global environmental initiatives.
• Energy Independence: The solar park will enhance Gold Fields' energy independence, allowing the company to rely more on renewable energy and reduce its dependence on fossil fuels, which can be subject to volatile market prices.
• Cost Savings: With the expected substantial portion of the mine's power needs being met by the new renewable energy complex, Gold Fields can anticipate long-term savings on energy costs, which can be reinvested into other sustainability initiatives.
• Support for Local Economy: The construction and operation of the solar park can create local jobs, fostering economic development in the region, and demonstrating Gold Fields’ commitment to community engagement and support.
• Infrastructure for Future Projects: The development of this solar park may serve as a model for future renewable projects within Gold Fields’ operations, encouraging more investment in green technologies and expanding their sustainability framework.
• Enhancing Corporate Reputation: Implementing a large-scale renewable energy project like the solar park can enhance Gold Fields' reputation as a leader in the mining industry regarding sustainability practices, attracting potential investors and stakeholders who prioritize environmental responsibility.
• Integration with Existing Operations: The solar park's integration with Gold Fields’ broader renewable energy hub signifies a relentless push towards a diversified energy portfolio, combining solar and wind resources for a more resilient energy supply.
• Educational and Research Opportunities: The project provides an opportunity for collaboration with academic and research institutions to explore new technologies and methodologies that promote sustainable mining practices, further underlining Gold Fields' role as an innovator in the industry.