Alliance for Rural Electrification 52d ago

Renewable electrification in the raw materials sector represents a strategic opportunity to reduce operating costs, enhance energy security, and strengthen ESG performance. As energy-intensive industrial players facing increasing decarbonisation pressure from investors, regulators, and offtakers, companies across the raw materials value chain — including mining, processing, and refining — are progressively integrating renewable and hybrid power solutions to lower carbon intensity and align with sustainability commitments. This session will examine how financiers, developers, and EPC partners can collaborate to structure bankable clean energy projects for raw materials operations — including on-site solar and storage, hybrid systems, and wheeling arrangements. The panel will also explore opportunities to align such initiatives with broader electrification and industrial decarbonisation objectives. Drawing on practical experience, the discussion will address key financial, contractual, and regulatory barriers, while highlighting how well-structured partnerships can unlock scalable, low-carbon power solutions across the raw materials sector — with potential spillover benefits for industrial competitiveness, grid strengthening, and local energy markets. Speakers: Adam Ward, Energy Investment Analyst, International Energy Agency Robert Voskuilen, Manager Energy Africa, FMO - Dutch Entrepreneurial Development Bank Alexander Lemon, President, Mkango Rare Earths Limited Brian Tahinduka, Executive Head; Energy, infrastructure & Mining Sector. BCB - Africa Regions & Offshore, Standard Bank Joseph Kalowekamo, Director for Energy Technical Services, Department of Energy Affairs (Malawi)