Ivanhoe Mines has completed the integration of a hybrid solar power facility and battery energy storage system at its Kamoa-Kakula mining operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo, providing a continuous supply of 60 megawatts (MW) of baseload power. The installation became fully operational in the third quarter of 2026 and is the largest hybrid solar and battery storage facility at a mining operation in Africa.
The project combines a 433 MWp solar photovoltaic facility with an adjacent battery energy storage system capable of storing 1,107 megawatt-hours (MWh). The integrated system is designed to provide reliable, round-the-clock electricity to support the mine’s industrial operations.
CrossBoundary Energy and Green World Energie have funded, owned and operated the energy infrastructure, with Kamoa-Kakula serving as the sole offtaker. Construction began in mid-2025, with power deliveries increasing significantly during August and September 2026.
Building on the project’s progress, Kamoa-Kakula plans to double its total on-site hybrid solar power capacity to 120 MW within the next 18 months. The expansion is expected to strengthen the mine’s energy supply and increase the contribution of renewable energy to its operations.
As part of the expansion plan, the company signed a power purchase agreement with Green World Energie in April 2026 for an additional 30 MW of capacity. In August 2026, it signed another agreement with Lualaba Solar Company for a further 30 MW.
Both planned facilities will be developed within the joint-venture licence area. The expansion is expected to enhance energy reliability, support long-term mining activities and increase the use of renewable power at Kamoa-Kakula.
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