Development of an energy awareness process for the South African mining industry

Abstract

This thesis focuses on implementing and evaluating an energy awareness plan in a South African mining group to improve energy efficiency. The research is pivotal in addressing the significant energy consumption in the industrial sector, particularly in mining, which is a major contributor to global energy use and environmental degradation. One of the strategies used in the South African mining industry to improve energy efficiency is using energy awareness programmes. The study focuses on a South African mining group, where an energy awareness plan was meticulously developed and executed across three active vertical shafts. The plan encompassed various communication mediums to promote energy conservation among mining personnel, including campaign emails, posters, and newsletters. The plan achieved an overall improvement of 3.38% in energy intensity reduction, resulting in a savings of R3 660 000. The findings of this thesis suggest that implementing an energy awareness plan can significantly contribute to energy efficiency and conservation in the South African mining industry, which can lead to cost savings. The research highlights the critical role of continuous evaluation and adaptation in ensuring the sustainability and effectiveness of such programmes.