In a bold move reflective of its evolving energy strategy and long-term commitment to Tanzania, Barrick Gold Corporation is embarking on a multifaceted expansion of its power infrastructure at two of its flagship gold mines—North Mara and Bulyanhulu. These sites are critical to Barrick’s African operations, and the company is taking deliberate steps to reinforce the energy backbone that supports their ongoing production. By expanding temporary thermal power plant capacity at both mines, Barrick is ensuring that its operations remain stable and resilient even amid fluctuations in the national grid. This is especially pertinent in a region where energy reliability can be a limiting factor in industrial performance.
At North Mara, the expansion is particularly forward-thinking. Beyond increasing thermal capacity, Barrick has added a battery energy storage system—a technological enhancement that allows the site to stabilize voltage, smooth out power delivery, and reduce fuel consumption from traditional generators. The integration of battery storage signals a recognition that modern mining requires not only reliable but also efficient and intelligent energy systems. These batteries serve as both backup and load balancers, creating an energy environment that is not only secure but also increasingly optimized.
Perhaps most notably, Barrick is actively exploring the addition of a solar photovoltaic (PV) installation at North Mara to augment the electricity supply from Tanesco, Tanzania’s national utility provider. This move marks a significant pivot toward renewables and showcases Barrick’s broader environmental, social, and governance (ESG) aspirations. A solar PV system would not only reduce reliance on fossil fuels but also contribute to the mine’s long-term sustainability, lower carbon footprint, and cost efficiency. The potential solar addition would operate in hybrid with both thermal and grid power, presenting a flexible and robust energy matrix that can scale with production needs while navigating the country’s energy landscape.
The strategic implications of these upgrades extend beyond Barrick’s own portfolio. Tanzania, with its vast mineral wealth, is becoming an increasingly important hub for global mining. Barrick’s initiatives may set a new benchmark in how mining operations are powered in Africa, particularly in regions where traditional energy supply is intermittent or underdeveloped. By pioneering a diversified and resilient energy model, Barrick is not only future-proofing its operations but also contributing to the modernization of Tanzania’s mining infrastructure.
In an era where responsible mining is not only expected but demanded, Barrick’s investments in energy innovation—combining thermal reliability, battery intelligence, and solar sustainability—represent more than operational improvements. They signify a leadership stance in redefining how gold is mined in the 21st century, combining productivity with environmental stewardship and energy innovation. As the world watches the energy transition unfold across industries, Barrick’s Tanzanian operations stand as a case study in how mining can evolve without compromising performance.
