Emissions cuts matter as much as ore grades in an era defined by energy security and climate accountability, according to Etienne le Roux, business development manager – mining at Aggreko.

Here, he examines the value of hybrid microgrids in resolving costs, energy expectations and climate compliance:

Working with mining companies across Africa and other remote regions, Aggreko sees firsthand how hybrid microgrids are reshaping the economics, resilience and climate performance of modern mining operations.

Hybrid power is emerging as one of the fastest environmental, social and governance (ESG) and financing wins in the mining sector. It cuts emissions and costs effectively while mitigating energy security risks, improving an organisation’s bankability and investor appeal.

These hybrid microgrids have the potential to reduce diesel consumption at remote mines by as much as 40-60%, which translates into millions in annual fuel savings and operating costs. And the decarbonisation gains from hybrid microgrids increasingly matter as much as ore grades as lenders, equity investors and stakeholders screen projects and spend on both financial returns and credible transition pathways.

In today’s investment environment, emissions performance has become inseparable from project value. In Africa, mining is entering a decisive new phase because the global energy transition has made it strategically unavoidable to prioritise ESG. The irony is that many of the deposits essential to this transition are isolated, far from national grids, making it challenging for companies to maintain reliable power.

The power systems enabling the supply of future-facing minerals are often anchored in diesel, which has been the default solution for decades as it’s mature, reliable and can be rapidly deployed in modular blocks, allowing for production to start quickly in remote locations.

However, today’s diesel reality carries high costs, volatile fuel logistics and increased scrutiny as a major contributor to Scope 1 emissions. The economics of energy, the tightening expectations of investors and lenders, and the growing influence of downstream buyers who now care how minerals are produced are also putting pressure on companies to change their energy approaches. Energy decisions are no longer operational alone; they are financial, reputational and strategic.

The financial exposure of diesel is also a challenge, particularly when operating off-grid. Every litre has to be trucked, piped or shipped to a site across insecure or poorly maintained transport networks, adding layers of cost and operational risk. Delivered fuel prices at remote EMEA sites frequently exceed international benchmarks once the costs of transport, security and handling are added – the World Bank study found that the cost of diesel and petrol for generators is around $40-$50bn a year at $0.40 to several dollars per kWh in remote locations.

The hybrid microgrid is a strategic step away from this reliance. Designed to integrate solar generation, battery storage and flexible thermal assets under advanced control systems, hybrid microgrids allow mines to displace significant diesel volumes without compromising reliability.

Hybrid solutions have also gained momentum because the economics of renewables have changed measurably over the past few years. Utility-scale solar costs in many parts of Africa have fallen below $0.08 per kWh, with some competitive procurements achieving prices as low as $0.05 per kWh[2][3]. The challenge is no longer cost; it is how to deploy and optimise these assets while maintaining uninterrupted operations.

As a result, this integration quickly becomes an essential part of a mine’s investment profile. Mining’s license to operate increasingly relies on demonstrating that ESG responsibility, and Scope 1 emissions are being adopted into due diligence. Emissions reduction is becoming a signal of management quality, long-term risk control and resilience, which is why mines that reduce diesel dependence are gaining improved access to sustainability-linked finance and preferential terms for offtake agreements.

A mine’s power strategy can strengthen or weaken its financing narrative, and hybrid microgrids offer one of the fastest ways to show measurable progress. Importantly, this transition is not theoretical. Working with mines across Africa, Australia, Europe and the Middle East, Aggreko has deployed hybrid microgrids that deliver immediate cost savings alongside improved reliability and lower emissions.

Aggreko has demonstrated savings of up to 40% compared with diesel-only systems, offering mines both cost stability and decarbonisation within credible and reliable energy infrastructure. With advanced controls and built-in redundancy, hybrid microgrids can achieve more than 99.9% uptime. For emissions, a typical mid-sized mine can save 50,000–100,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually, improving its carbon footprint in a way that is visible and auditable.

This transition isn’t frictionless, however. Financial and capital allocation constraints, regulatory complexities, security and supply chain risks, as well as limited expertise to manage hybrid systems, make it a careful and strategic investment. This is where working with an experienced energy partner becomes critical.

Aggreko is a practical partner for mines trying to navigate this move, offering flexible commercial models such as PPAs and OPEX-led structures alongside rapid deployment with modular systems and the ability to optimise thermal assets while layering in solar and battery storage. Aggreko is the step between, bringing the expertise and the solutions into a simplified solution that makes it easier and faster for companies to benefit.

This is the pivot facing Africa’s mining sector now. Mines can remain dependent on high-cost, carbon-intensive diesel generation, or transition to hybrid microgrids that provide reliable, low-carbon energy at lower cost. And because hybrid microgrids simultaneously address cost, emissions, reliability and investor confidence, they represent one of the few interventions capable of unlocking multiple benefits at once, rather than incrementally.

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Wirtgen Group and John Deere are set to make a major impact at Conexpo 2026, unveiling six market premieres and three global firsts alongside a broad portfolio of advanced machines, automation systems and digital solutions

With a total of 24 world and market premieres on display, the joint exhibition will focus on boosting productivity, transparency and profitability across road construction, earthworks and materials processing.

Visitors to the shared stand (Silver Lot SV2415) will experience a construction site-centric showcase, including a dedicated presentation of the John Deere Operations Center located on the ground floor of the Innovation Center. Designed as a central digital hub, the platform consolidates machine, job and performance data in one place. The exhibit will also highlight a comprehensive suite of digital aftermarket solutions on the upper floor.

A total of 14 Wirtgen Group machines will feature the latest automation and data-driven technologies, including the Wirtgen Group Performance Tracker combined with solutions such as AutoPilot 2.0, Smart Level Pro, Smart Pave, Smart Compact Pro and SPECTIVE CONNECT. These technologies automate workflows while capturing and analysing performance data, enabling more efficient, transparent and cost-effective execution across every phase of the construction process.

Global firsts and market premieres

Cold milling specialist Wirtgen will introduce a world premiere that opens up an entirely new application area for customers, with full details to be revealed at the start of the exhibition. Also on display will be the new WR X-Tier generation of wheeled cold recyclers and soil stabilisers. These machines cover applications ranging from structural road rehabilitation to soil stabilisation and material consolidation in road construction.

The WR X-Tier series features an intuitive Human-Machine Interface (HMI) that provides interactive digital guidance to improve mixing quality and productivity. Digital assistants such as MIX ASSIST and Wirtgen Group COPILOT further enhance efficiency while reducing operating costs per square metre.

Vögele will debut the latest Dash 5 paver generation for the North American market, offering improved operator ergonomics, faster setup, higher automation levels and a more efficient drive system. Key highlights include world premieres in the 10 ft class: the SUPER 2000-5 X tracked paver and the SUPER 2003-5 X wheeled paver, both equipped with newly developed screeds. The range is complemented by the SUPER 2100-5 X, featuring a high-compaction screed suited for roller compacted concrete applications.

In the Mini Class segment, Vögele will present the SUPER 800-5 P, the successor to the SUPER 700. This compact Dash 5 paver introduces the ErgoBasic 5 operating concept and a redesigned hopper wall geometry that improves visibility and loading flexibility. All Dash 5-X-Tier pavers can be fitted with the latest digitalisation and automation solutions.

Automation and precision compaction

Hamm will focus on automated compaction technologies, highlighting enhancements to the Smart Compact system. Smart Compact Pro now integrates real-time asphalt density measurement through the new Realtime Density Scan function, enabling automated adjustment of compaction energy and modes on HD+ and HX series tandem rollers. Operators can monitor density development in real time across the entire jobsite, including during static compaction.

This capability supports precise compliance with specifications, reduces the risk of penalties and lowers overall project costs while contributing to longer pavement service life. Hamm will also introduce solutions for earthworks, including automated amplitude adjustment based on new measurement values, and a new compactor model designed specifically for the North American rental market.

Materials processing and digital connectivity

For materials processing, Kleemann will present the MOBISCREEN MSS 1102 PRO scalper, making its North American debut. Designed for quarry applications, the PRO Line screening plant handles throughput of up to 750 t/h and features an intuitive control system that minimises operating errors and training time. Remote operation enhances safety, while the optional Dual Power drive allows for all-electric operation.

Kleemann screening plants can now be equipped with SPECTIVE CONNECT, providing operators with real-time machine data via smartphone. The integrated stockpile monitoring function offers clear visibility of material status, improving productivity and site coordination.

John Deere Operations Center as the digital backbone

At the core of the digital offering is the John Deere Operations Center, which brings together all data required for end-to-end construction site management. Project data can be transferred directly to machines via the integrated Work Planner, enabling partially automated execution. Users gain continuous insight into project progress through performance data generated by Wirtgen Group Performance Tracker solutions covering milling, paving, compacting, crushing and stabilising.

With smart hardware and software, existing machines can be quickly retrofitted to capture and document performance data. These digital solutions help contractors meet reporting requirements with minimal additional effort, reducing administrative burden while streamlining daily operations.

Integrated Pump Technology is recording increased demand for its Grindex submersible dewatering pumps across Zambia’s Copperbelt, where the equipment is delivering reliable performance in some of the region’s most challenging mining environments

Designed for harsh underground environments, the pumps combine rugged construction, operational flexibility and strong local technical support to deliver consistent performance.

According to Alfred Kelsey, sales manager at Integrated Pump Technology, Grindex pumps have demonstrated notable success in specialist applications such as the cleaning of underground dams. One recent project, carried out through the company’s Kitwe based distributor IES, involved the deployment of a 14 kW Grindex Bravo 400 to address severe sludge build up that had compromised dam capacity.

“Our customer faced a serious challenge, with sediment accumulation drastically reducing the capacity of their underground dams,” Kelsey explained.

“Conventional dewatering pumps aren’t designed for handling this slurry density, but the submersible Grindex Bravo 400 proved ideal.”

Built with hard iron components for high abrasion resistance and fitted with an integrated agitator, the Bravo 400 is able to re suspend settled material, enabling efficient removal of dense sludge. The pump is also rated to IP68, allowing safe operation at depths of up to 20 metres.

Kelsey notes that interest in Grindex dewatering pumps is increasing rapidly across the Copperbelt as mines look for reliable long term solutions.

“The reliability and quality of Grindex pumps are major drawcards, complemented by the integrated smart systems on the 2.2 kW to 18 kW models, offering genuine plug-and-play functionality,” Kelsey noted.

“This feature allows for fully automatic operation with comprehensive built-in protections.”

For larger duty requirements, Integrated Pump Technology supplies Grindex pumps in the 25 kW to 90 kW range, supported by external control and monitoring panels. The product range can also be tailored to suit different abrasive conditions through material options.

“Customers can specify nitrile rubber or polyurethane linings to handle highly abrasive environments,” he added. “A popular choice is internal polyurethane inserts paired with a lightweight, corrosion-resistant stainless steel casing.”

The stainless steel design significantly reduces pump weight, an important advantage in underground settings where equipment is frequently moved by hand. A split handle configuration further improves ease of transport, allowing two people to carry the unit safely.

“Our rapid response capability sets us apart in the Copperbelt region,” Kelsey emphasised. “Through our close partnership with IES, we ensure technicians remain highly skilled, aligned with OEM standards and equipped with a first-class workshop.”

This local support model enables quick turnaround on repairs, whether for full overhauls, smaller cable fixes or on site technical assistance. Kelsey adds that carefully managed local stock levels ensure critical spare parts are readily available, helping mines minimise downtime and maintain operational continuity.

MSC is drawing attention to the scale and reach of its intermodal logistics solutions across Africa, illustrating how the integration of rail, road and port infrastructure is reshaping inland cargo movement

By extending connectivity well beyond coastal ports, MSC is helping customers access critical hinterland markets with greater reliability, efficiency and control.

Intermodal transport has become a cornerstone of resilient supply chains across the continent. By reducing transit times, improving schedule predictability and strengthening links between landlocked economies and global trade routes, integrated inland solutions are responding to a growing need for dependable connectivity. MSC’s expanded intermodal offering is designed to meet this demand, providing customers with flexible, end-to-end transport options that support long-term planning and operational stability.

Abidjan–Ouagadougou: A strategic rail corridor

The first feature in the series focuses on the rail corridor linking Côte d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso, one of West Africa’s most active trade routes. Stretching approximately 1,150–1,260 km between the Port of Abidjan and Ouagadougou, the rail connection offers a reliable inland alternative to road transport, helping to ease congestion and create more consistent cargo flows.

Serving key sectors including agriculture, FMCG, mining and temperature-controlled cargo, the corridor enables customers to move goods inland with greater security and predictability. Through MSC’s intermodal network, shippers benefit from stable inland-to-port connectivity, improved transit time consistency and the confidence to plan operations year-round.

Building value across Africa’s key trade lanes

Beyond the Côte d’Ivoire–Burkina Faso rail link, the series will highlight other corridors where MSC’s intermodal solutions are delivering measurable value for customers.

In Cameroon, the focus turns to cargo flows supported by Kribi Port and improved trucking routes, which are strengthening access to inland markets and streamlining trade connections.

Across South Africa and Namibia, MSC’s trucking network is enabling dependable cross-border transport, with particular emphasis on reefer cargo supported by the Durban reefer warehouse, ensuring temperature integrity throughout the journey.

In Kenya, the spotlight follows agricultural exports from origin to port, offering a full view of how MSC’s integrated inland network supports a seamless land-to-port logistics chain.

Together, these corridors reflect MSC’s commitment to building predictable inland transport solutions that reduce operational complexity, enhance supply chain visibility and connect African markets more efficiently to global trade.

African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) and Heirs Energies Limited have unveiled a US$750mn financing arrangement aimed at strengthening Heirs Energies’ capital structure and releasing liquidity to meet its working capital needs as it advances an extensive field development programme

The funding is expected to play a key role in boosting Nigeria’s domestic energy supply at a time of rising demand.

The agreement was signed in Abuja by Dr George Elombi, president and chairman of the board of directors of Afreximbank, and Tony O Elumelu CFR, chairman of Heirs Energies Limited. Structured as a dual-tranche, senior secured reserve-based lending facility, the financing is intended to support Heirs Energies’ next phase of expansion as the company seeks to increase and sustain oil and gas production.

Under the transaction, Afreximbank served as Mandated Lead Arranger, Facility Agent, and Security Agent. The deal is viewed as a significant step in the strategic relationship between Afreximbank and Heirs Energies, reflecting deeper collaboration between the two organisations.

Speaking after the signing, Dr Elombi described the partnership as evidence of Afreximbank’s focus on value creation and backing African entrepreneurs.

“Without investments, such as the one being provided to Heirs Energies, many fossil fuel-dependent African economies would face dire economic challenges,” said Dr Elombi. “Our aim, among others, is to empower the African entrepreneur. Our core strength is in the value of the partnerships we continue to forge.”

He also acknowledged Mr. Elumelu’s continued support for Afreximbank, noting that such collaborations have helped position the institution as a key driver of Africa’s economic transformation and broader development objectives.

Dr Elombi reiterated Afreximbank’s commitment to advancing the African Energy Bank initiative, stating, “we should get to higher strides and get the Energy Bank so we can move most of the energy portfolio there. We will put tremendous capital in it to be as bold and as innovative as Afreximbank”.

He further indicated that Afreximbank is open to working with Heirs Holdings and its affiliated businesses as they expand into other West African markets, including Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, as well as across the wider continent. “Our aim is to spread and support the domination of the African brand across Africa.”

Tony O Elumelu, CFR, chairman of Heirs Energies Limited, said, “This transaction is a powerful affirmation of what African enterprise can achieve when backed by disciplined execution and long-term African capital. It reflects the successful journey Heirs Energies has taken – from turnaround to growth – and reinforces our belief in African capital working for African businesses. This is Africa financing Africa’s future.”

Heirs Energies occupies a central position in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, where crude oil continues to hold major national and international significance.

The relationship between Afreximbank and Heirs Energies dates back to 2021, when the company, then operating as Heirs Oil and Gas, completed the acquisition of a 45% participating interest in the OML 17 Joint Venture. The US$1.1bn transaction was financed by a consortium of international and local banks led by Afreximbank and represented one of the largest indigenous energy acquisitions in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

Afreximbank contributed up to US$250mn to that financing, highlighting its commitment to developing Africa’s energy sector and supporting intra-African trade and African-owned businesses.

Following the acquisition, crude oil output increased from around 25,000 barrels per day to an average of 50,000 barrels per day, alongside growth in associated and non-associated gas production. Heirs Energies also achieved first gas from the Agbada Non-Associated Gas Plant on 21 November 2021, only months after assuming control of an asset that had remained under construction for more than a decade under the previous operator.

Today, Heirs Energies is the leading gas supplier within the Eastern Domestic Network and provides gas to three major power plants, together accounting for roughly 15% of Nigeria’s installed electricity generation capacity.

SANY Group has officially begun operations at its first global engineering machinery remanufacturing hub, the SANY Hunan-Hainan Intelligent Manufacturing Industrial Park

The launch marks a major step in SANY’s globalisation and sustainability strategy, with the company securing CNY100 million (US$14.27mn) in orders from clients in Southeast Asia and Africa on the opening day.

The Park represents China’s first industrial facility co-developed by a pilot free trade zone (FTZ) and a pilot free trade port, advancing cross-regional collaboration between Hunan and Hainan provinces. By leveraging both provinces’ industrial strengths and policy incentives, the Park is designed to support Chinese enterprises in expanding their international footprint.

Construction of the Park began in August 2023, covering approximately 10 hectares (150 mu). With a total investment of CNY600 million (US$85.62mn), it is expected to reach an annual output value of CNY750 million (US$107.02mn) when operating at full capacity.

Positioned as a regional remanufacturing hub and resource distribution platform, the Park focuses on the maintenance and remanufacturing of core engineering machinery components as well as second-hand equipment from domestic and international markets. The facility promotes the circular reuse of industrial resources, aligning with SANY’s commitment to sustainability.

Operating under the Hainan FTZ framework, eligible value-added processing activities enjoy tariff preferences, while remanufacturing operations under bonded supervision may qualify for corporate and personal income‑tax incentives. The Park benefits from the “Dual 15%” tax-incentive policy, receiving approval for outsourced processes to enjoy a 15% corporate income-tax reduction.

“The project represents a key strategic initiative for SANY to deepen its globalisation, digitalisation, and low-carbon transformation. Moving forward, SANY will continue to actively explore new models for remanufacturing, promote the circular reuse of industrial resources, and jointly advance the global engineering machinery industry's transition toward a greener, low-carbon future,” said Tang Xiuguo, chairman of SANY.