The Navoi Mining and Metallurgical Company (NMMC) is advancing its commitment to sustainability by implementing a three-year roadmap focused on expanding the use of renewable energy. The $450mn program aligns with Uzbekistan's national goal to increase the share of renewable energy to 40% of total power generation by 2030.
In the first half of 2024, NMMC installed photovoltaic (PV) panels at 21 major industrial sites, with a combined capacity of 5,750 kW. This initiative will generate up to 9.7 million kWh annually, marking a significant step toward greener operations. Additionally, NMMC has begun constructing a 500 MW solar power facility near its operations in the Tomdi district, Navoi region. The project will be completed in two phases:
- Phase 1, set to launch in the fourth quarter of 2024, will have a capacity of 220 MW and an annual power generation of 374mn kWh.
- Phase 2, scheduled for completion by the end of 2025, will add 280 MW of capacity and generate 476mn kWh annually.
Once fully operational, the solar power station will produce about 1bn kWh per year, covering 21.4% of NMMC’s annual electricity consumption.
The 2024 progress builds on the company’s 2023 achievements, which included the installation of 1,200 kW of solar panels. This includes 1,000 kW at the Navoi Machine-Building Plant, 100 kW at the Kyzylkum mining department, and 100 kW at corporate headquarters, with an annual generation capacity of 2.465mn kWh.
In addition to power generation, NMMC has deployed nearly 5,000 solar water heaters across its operations, reducing reliance on natural gas. These solar heaters meet all the Company’s hot water needs during summer, saving 1.7mn cubic meters of natural gas annually.
“NMMC is committed to doing its part in the global transition to renewable energy. Our investments today will help lower costs, reduce pollution, and secure a greener future for our communities,” Eugeny Antonov, NMMC's First Deputy CEO for Transformation, emphasized the Company’s commitment to sustainable development.
NMMC, the largest gold producer in Central Asia and the fourth largest globally, primarily mines and processes refined gold. The company operates 12 major mining sites, seven hydrometallurgical plants, and two heap leaching facilities, with the Muruntau-Myutenbai site being the world’s largest open-pit mine. NMMC's mineral resources are estimated at 148 Moz of gold. The Ministry of Economy and Finance of Uzbekistan holds a 98% stake in the company.
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