Description
Project Name: Essakane
Project Owner: Total Eren
Standard: Verra VCS
Project ID: 2434
Located in northern Burkina Faso, 330 km northeast of Ouagadougou, the Essakane Solar Power Plant shines as a global pioneer in sustainable mining. Commissioned in 2018, this 15 MW photovoltaic marvel delivers clean, reliable energy to IAMGOLD’s Essakane Gold Mine, transforming an off-grid operation once tethered to diesel. With 130,000 solar panels sprawling across 22 hectares, Essakane is powering more than 10% of the mine’s energy demand while slashing fuel consumption by 6 million liters yearly.
Essakane Solar is a game-changer for energy-intensive industries. Before 2018, the mine’s relied entirely on diesel, with energy costs swallowing 30% of operating expenses. Now, this hybrid model hedges against oil price volatility, enhances resilience, and sets a blueprint for mines worldwide. The project created 75 local jobs during construction and sustains 40 permanent roles, while training programs with École des Métiers empower Burkinabé technicians. Community investments—water pumps, schools, and clinics—amplify its social impact, earning praise from President Roch Marc Christian Kaboré at its 2018 inauguration.
Total Eren, founded in 2012 as a renewable energy arm of EREN Groupe, leads this triumph. This independent power producer (IPP) excels in delivering tailored, bankable solutions. As Burkina Faso targets 30% renewables by 2030, Essakane Solar is a shining example, paving the way for other hybrid projects.
Impact
The solar power plant is giving back to the local community.
1% of the revenue generated by the project is invested in the community around the mine.
Thanks to this project, the Essakane gold mine is the first mine in the world to use renewable energy.
The project is a business case of African excellence and innovation. It paves the way on other groundbreaking initiatives in the field of clean energy across the continent.
Total Eren used the local workforce to build the plant.
The project hired 100 people for the construction phase and relies on 40 permanent technicians to ensure operation and maintenance.
For mining companies (operating 24/7), the energy budget represents up to 30% of their operating costs.
The project enabled the plant to reduce its fuel consumption by 6 million liters per year.
