Discovery Green and Glencore South Africa Sign Landmark 20-Year Renewable Energy Agreement

In a major step toward sustainable energy adoption, Discovery Green has signed a 20-year renewable energy supply agreement with Glencore Operations South Africa (Pty) Ltd, marking a transformative development for four of Glencore’s key mining operations. The deal, set to commence in 2027, underscores South Africa’s growing commitment to renewable energy solutions.

Under the agreement, Discovery Green will supply renewable electricity to Glencore’s Goedgevonden, Tweefontein, and iMpunzi mine complexes near eMalahleni in the Nkangala District. These mines collectively consume over 290 gigawatt-hours (GWh) per year, and the shift to renewable power is expected to reduce carbon emissions while providing long-term cost predictability for Glencore’s operations.

Murray Houston, Chief Executive Officer of Glencore Coal South Africa, highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, “This collaboration with Discovery Green is a key part of our strategy to decarbonise our South African operations while maintaining energy security.” He added that the agreement aligns with responsible mining practices, long-term sustainability goals, and South Africa’s broader energy transition objectives.

The renewable energy will be generated from Discovery Green’s expanding portfolio of large-scale wind and solar farms and delivered via the national grid, demonstrating how strategic partnerships can leverage existing infrastructure to accelerate green initiatives.

Industry experts note that agreements like this position South Africa as a regional leader in renewable energy innovation, while simultaneously enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability in energy-intensive sectors. The deal also serves as a blueprint for other resource-heavy companies seeking to integrate eco-friendly energy solutions into their long-term business strategies.