Advancing Clean Energy for Sustainable Mining Operations in Namibia
In a significant move towards sustainable mining operations, Appian Capital Advisory LLP (Appian) has announced its acquisition of the majority shareholding in Rosh Pinah Solar Park (RPSP) from Emesco Energy. This strategic investment is aimed at supplying clean energy exclusively to Rosh Pinah Zinc Corporation’s mining operations in Namibia, aligning with Appian’s broader commitment to decarbonization and sustainable energy solutions.
Driving Cost Savings and Sustainability
✔ 8% Reduction in Energy Costs over the next 15 years
✔ 30% Energy Coverage for Rosh Pinah Zinc’s expansion project
✔ 14,000 Metric Tons CO₂ Reduction per year—equivalent to planting 20,000 trees
The integration of solar energy into Rosh Pinah Zinc’s power supply is expected to yield significant benefits. The solar plant will reduce the mine’s cost of energy by 8% over the next 15 years while covering 30% of the energy needs for the mine’s expansion project, RP2.0. This move will enhance energy price security through a fixed nominal rate offtake agreement, reducing reliance on external energy sources and mitigating cost volatility.
Beyond financial benefits, the project will also have a substantial environmental impact, reducing the mine’s carbon footprint by 14,000 metric tons (kt) of CO₂ emissions per year—comparable to planting over 20,000 trees. This aligns with Namibia’s broader sustainability goals and contributes to global efforts in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Expanding Renewable Energy Capacity
🔹 Increase in Solar Capacity from 5.4 MWp to 16.3 MWp
🔹 Optimizing asset value while ensuring energy security
🔹 Emesco Energy to continue operations & lead expansion
Under the new agreement, Appian plans to expand the solar plant’s capacity from 5.4 megawatt peak (MWp) to 16.3 MWp. This expansion will optimize the asset’s value while furthering the mine’s energy security and efficiency. Emesco Energy will continue to oversee plant operations and lead the expansion efforts, ensuring a seamless transition and sustainable growth.
Appian’s expertise in renewable energy will be leveraged in this expansion, drawing from its experience in Brazil, where the company is currently developing 20 solar plants to support its mining portfolio in Minas Gerais. The company is also evaluating opportunities to increase Rosh Pinah Zinc’s share of energy sourced from solar power, unlocking additional cost savings and further reductions in carbon emissions.
Enhancing Namibia’s Energy Independence
✔ Namibia imports 75% of its annual energy usage (~3,000 GWh)
✔ Ideal conditions for solar production with high radiation levels
✔ Project contributes to long-term national energy security
Namibia possesses ideal conditions for solar energy production, boasting high solar radiation levels and abundant sunshine throughout the year. Currently, the country relies on energy imports for nearly 75% of its annual consumption, totaling approximately 3,000 GWh. Appian’s investment in RPSP will not only enhance the sustainability of Rosh Pinah Zinc but also contribute to Namibia’s broader energy independence by increasing domestic renewable energy generation.
Executive Perspectives on the Investment
🗣 Michael W. Scherb, Founder and CEO of Appian:
“This is an important investment that will support Appian’s decarbonisation ambitions and provide tangible cost benefits to Rosh Pinah Zinc, while offering attractive risk-adjusted returns to our investors. The project is another important step for Appian’s clean energy strategy, following the development of our solar plant operations in Brazil. I look forward to working with our team to deliver on the opportunity this investment offers the business.”
🗣 Rinus Strydom, Managing Director of Emesco Energy:
“This investment by Appian is a pivotal step, not only in expanding the RPSP renewable energy plant, but also expanding Namibia’s energy generation sector in general. Emesco looks forward to collaborating with Appian and commends their clear commitment to decarbonise, drive down the cost of energy, and increase energy supply diversity within their portfolio.”
A Step Towards a Greener Future
The acquisition of a majority shareholding in RPSP reinforces Appian’s long-term commitment to sustainable mining and renewable energy integration. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels and stabilizing energy costs, this initiative represents a forward-thinking approach to modern mining operations. As Namibia and the global mining sector continue to shift towards greener energy solutions, projects like this will play a crucial role in shaping a more sustainable future for the industry.
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