Case study
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Green energy for MTN’s network |
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Background
The supply of electricity from the national power grid in South
Africa is not sufficient to meet demand and power outages are
becoming more common. In addition, the largely coal-powered
national grid is highly greenhouse gas intensive. In this
environment, MTN South Africa’s requirement for two megawatts
of energy to power a crucial test and data centre could not be met
by the state power utility.
Solution
MTN South Africa decided to implement a self-sustaining,
climate-friendly tri-generation power plant to meet some of its
requirements. The methane-driven plant uses two absorption
chiller cycle processes to maximise energy output and heat
management. The methodology is a first in Africa and will
generate approximately R12 million worth of UN Certified
Emission Reduction credits. In 2011, it led to savings of more than
R3 million in operating expenses and additional savings are
forecast ahead. The solution also positions MTN South Africa
better in preparation for the introduction of carbon taxes. |
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