Off-grid renewable energy assets for the mining sector are enjoying growing popularity, though this market is still largely untapped, comprising a few dozen flagship projects. Thomas Hillig, an expert in off-grid solar systems, spoke to pv magazine and believes that, in the end, it will be in the interest of mining companies to switch. Currently, we see a growing adoption rate of renewable energy projects for the mining sector. What are the drivers for this? It is a combination of different drivers. Probably the most important is that the mining companies have had their first experiences with solar. The first pilots were crucial. Now, mining decision makers speak actively about solar and exchange their experiences. This builds up faith in the solar solution. Also, the falling prices of solar have contributed. Additionally, increasing diesel prices - or at least uncertainties due to the global political environment - have played in solar's favor. We also see that more brands which are already recognized in the mining industry have integrated renewable energy solutions into their portfolio. Interestingly, we do not only talk about companies from the diesel genset side such as Aggreko, Caterpillar, or Wartsila, but also diesel suppliers. In general, the sales processes are improving. This requires a new skill set that many renewable energy companies were missing.
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