South32 and Eskom plot Hillside renewable energy plan

South32 and energy company Eskom are working on a renewable electricity plan for the Hillside aluminium smelter in South Africa.

The 720,000 metric tons per year Hillside plant is located in KwaZulu Natal, on South Africa's east coast.

It is the largest aluminium smelter in the southern hemisphere and has a 10-year agreement with Eskom which is due to end in 2031.

Eskom and South32 have set up a joint team to 'explore mechanisms that can bring competitively priced renewable energy into the national grid', the two companies said in a joint statement today (Tuesday).

South32 Chief Operating Officer Noel Pillay said: "It is important we continue this momentum, working towards a viable, low-carbon energy solution for Hillside from 2031, when the current electricity contract expires."

Eskom Chief Executive Dan Marokane said the collaboration with South32 would help 'develop a long-term energy solution that supports industrial competitiveness while advancing South Africa's transition to a lower carbon electricity system'.