American solar for largest gold complex

Looking to lower the carbon footprint of the single largest gold-producing complex in the world, Nevada Gold Mines has turned to First Solar Inc. to provide enough cadmium-telluride thin-film photovoltaic solar modules to supply up to 17% of the energy needs of its Nevada Gold Mines.

A joint venture between Barrick Gold Corp. and Newmont Corp., the world's two largest gold mining companies, Nevada Gold Mines produces approximately 3.5 million ounces of gold a year. Joining a growing number of mining operations investing in solar to provide clean power, this JV chose First Solar as the best choice for capturing the plentiful American Southwest sun to help power its gold operations.

"When we selected our solar module technology partner, we did so with very careful consideration," said Nevada Gold Mines Executive Managing Director Greg Walker. "We made the choice to contract a supplier who shares our values, including a commitment to fair labor practices and investment in American manufacturing and American jobs."

Being chosen by two of the largest mining companies in the world is a monumental acknowledgment of the technology and values exhibited by First Solar.

"As America's solar company, we're proud to support Nevada Gold Mines with responsible solar technology designed and developed right here in the United States," said First Solar Chief Commercial Officer Georges Antoun. "NGM is part of a growing wave of customers that are unwilling to compromise on quality or their principles and choose to partner with First Solar. They partnered with us because we can deliver a high-performance module that comes without the social, environmental, and political risks that are, unfortunately, associated with too many solar manufacturers today."

This Nevada Gold Mines agreement immediately follows two consecutive photovoltaic solar modules deals First Solar brokered with long-standing partners Origis Energy and Silicon Ranch.

You can read about First Solar's previous announcements and deals at First Solar doubles up module agreements in the April 13, 2022, edition of Metal Tech News.

Designed and developed at its research and development centers in California and Ohio, First Solar's responsibly produced advanced thin-film PV modules set industry benchmarks for quality, durability, reliability, design, and environmental performance.

"By partnering with First Solar we also found an innovator that can deliver high performance solar panels with the lowest carbon footprint and the best environmental profile available today," said Walker. "At NGM, we believe that our corporate social responsibility and the profitability of our business go hand in hand. While minimizing the environmental impacts of our operations – we bring sustainable long-term social and economic benefits to Nevada."

As part of the deal between First Solar and Nevada Gold Mines, 260 megawatts direct current of solar modules will be deployed to power the new 200 MW alternating current facility in the second quarter of 2023.