MMG donates light bulbs to Katanga energy efficiency campaign

MMG Limited (MMG) has donated 200,000 light bulbs in support of the Provincial Government of Katanga’s energy efficiency campaign.

The campaign aims to contribute to improvements in the availability and security of regional electricity supply by reducing residential demand.

MMG officially handed over the energy efficient light bulbs to His Excellency, Mr Moise Katumbi, at a ceremony in Lubumbashi last week.

The donation is valued at approximately US$270,000.

SNEL, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) national energy supplier, will coordinate the free distribution of the energy efficient light bulbs to households on behalf of the Province.

Kinsevere General Manager Miles Naude said that MMG was pleased to participate in a campaign which focused on collaborative solutions to the issue of energy security.

“Energy security is a critical issue for the community, government and business and collaborative solutions that address supply as well as domestic and industrial demand are key.

 “MMG’s contribution to the Governor’s campaign is expected to lead to an approximately 17.2 megawatt reduction in annual power consumption in and around Lubumbashi.

“The broader campaign, along with industry efforts to reduce electricity demand, will help ensure efficient use of available energy supply.”

The energy efficient light bulbs donated by MMG are up to five times more efficient than incandescent light bulbs, which are commonly used across Katanga Province.  

A number of other mining companies are also participating in the Governor’s campaign.

MMG’s donation follows its coordination of the successful Katanga Energy Day, held under the patronage of the Katanga Provincial Government and Chamber of Mines, on 14 August 2014.

The conference, which was attended by more than 100 representatives, enabled mining companies, electricity suppliers and government authorities to discuss opportunities to maximise future energy supply in the province.