Reliable Power Supply to Commission and Operate Gold Mine,
Eritrea
The Bisha mine, operated by Bisha Mining Share Company (BMSC),
is located in an isolated region of Eritrea approximately 300
kilometres from the Red Sea. Prior to commencing construction of
the mine, BMSC had to satisfy its investors that they would be able
to provide a stable and reliable power supply, as
the site would be unable to access the Eritrean national grid due
to its location. As the power required would vary throughout the
construction and commissioning of the mine, BMSC needed a fast and
flexible power supply.
Power Supply
After a number of meetings with BMSC to discuss the power
requirement, Aggreko determined that once fully operational, the
mine would require 20 MW of power. Aggreko was involved from the
feasibility stages of the project to design, mobilise and
commission the 20 MW power package. The power package is now the
mine’s only source of operational power until a permanent
power supply is established, with Aggreko
technicians manning the site 24 hours a day to ensure a stable and
reliable power supply.
Why was Aggreko Chosen?
Aggreko has an extensive track record of powering mines in
remote locations, including as the BHP Coloso mine in Chile and the
Ivanhoe mine in Mongolia. By contracting Aggreko, BMSC was able to
include the power costs as part of the mine’s monthly operating
expenses, rather than paying for a permanent package out of capital
expenditure. The Aggreko solution offered them both the guarantee
of reliable power and flexibility of payment.