Home News and Blog Last Friday, the women of Zenith Energy gathered on our office terrace to foster connection, camaraderie and support increased gender diversity and inclusion in the business. It was a wonderful opportunity to share experiences, support one another, and enjoy each other’s company.These moments contribute to a sense of community and support […]
August 01, 2024
1min
Last Friday, the women of Zenith Energy gathered on our office terrace to foster connection, camaraderie and support increased gender diversity and inclusion in the business. It was a wonderful opportunity to share experiences, support one another, and enjoy each other’s company.
These moments contribute to a sense of community and support for the growing number of great women in Zenith’s team. It reinforces the importance of connection and collaboration to progress diversity, equity and inclusion in our workplace.
Celebrating Tjiwarl Culture at Zenith Energy’s Kathleen Valley Lithium Project
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Celebrating Tjiwarl Culture at Zenith Energy’s Kathleen Valley Lithium Project
Home News and Blog As part of its Engagement Agreement with Tjiwarl Contracting Services Zenith Energy has actively contracted Tjiwarl Member businesses to work on its projects situated on Tjiwarl Country. One of those contracts has been a mural by Sacred Senses Pty Ltd at Kathleen Valley. This artwork by Kuberan Muir tells the story […]
July 30, 2024
1min
As part of its Engagement Agreement with Tjiwarl Contracting Services Zenith Energy has actively contracted Tjiwarl Member businesses to work on its projects situated on Tjiwarl Country. One of those contracts has been a mural by Sacred Senses Pty Ltd at Kathleen Valley. This artwork by Kuberan Muir tells the story of two Kunia pythons and their journey, depicting the creation of Jones Creek that crosses the mining operation and its cultural significance.
This initiative aligns with Zenith Energy’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), developed in collaboration with Reconciliation Australia. Our RAP focuses on: Building relationships: Establishing connections with local Aboriginal communities. Fostering respect: Appreciating and respecting Aboriginal cultures to create an inclusive environment. Creating opportunities: Providing sustainable opportunities for Aboriginal peoples.
Zenith Energy (Zenith) is pleased to announce the signing of contracts with Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (Lynas) to design, build, own, operate and maintain a hybrid power station (Mt Weld Power Station) at Lynas’ Mt Weld Mine, 35Km south-east of Laverton, Western Australia.
Zenith Energy signs contracts with Lynas Rare Earths for Mt Weld Hybrid Power Station
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Zenith Energy signs contracts with Lynas Rare Earths for Mt Weld Hybrid Power Station
Zenith Energy (Zenith) is pleased to announce thesigning of contracts with Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (Lynas) to design, build,own, operate and maintain a hybrid power station (Mt Weld Power Station)at Lynas’ Mt Weld Mine, 35Km south-east of Laverton, Western Australia. Home News and Blog Zenith Energy (Zenith) is pleased to announce the signing of contracts […]
July 23, 2024
7min
Zenith Energy (Zenith) is pleased to announce the signing of contracts with Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (Lynas) to design, build, own, operate and maintain a hybrid power station (Mt Weld Power Station) at Lynas’ Mt Weld Mine, 35Km south-east of Laverton, Western Australia.
The Mt Weld hybrid power station will include a 24MW Wind Farm (4 Wind Turbines), 7MW Solar PV Farm, and a 12MW/12MWh Battery Energy Storage System. This Renewable facility will be supported by a 17MW High Efficiency Gas fired power station, with 5MW of standby Diesel generation. The total installed capacity of the Mt Weld Power Station upon completion will be approximately 65MW.
The term of the PPA is 15 years, commencing from commercial operation of the wind farm, which is scheduled to occur in calendar year 2026. The diesel and gas facilities are scheduled to be completed in the first half of calendar year 2025, with solar and BESS to be installed progressively, and full operation expected in calendar year 2026.
The Mt Weld Power Station has been designed to run “engine-off” during periods of high renewable energy production and achieve an average annual renewable energy percentage of up to approximately 70%. Zenith is a leading independent power provider and is at the forefront of the transition to renewable energy in the mining sector. Zenith is currently contracted to operate 15 separate remote generation power facilities, with a capacity of more than 650MW across Western Australia and the Northern Territory.
Zenith has already commenced early construction works at the Mt Weld site, having entered into Preliminary and Early Works Agreements with Lynas in calendar year 2023.
Mt Weld Project site
Zenith CEO and Managing Director, Hamish Moffat, commented: “As a leading provider of sustainable energy solutions to the Australian resources market Zenith is pleased to be working with Lynas, the world’s only significant producer of separated rare earth materials outside of China, on the high renewable energy fraction hybrid power solution to their Mt Weld operations. The signing of the Mt Weld Hybrid power station Power Purchase Agreement represents a significant milestone for Zenith Energy, with our contracted Wind Capacity now exceeding 100MW. Zenith look forward to enabling Lynas to deliver on their productivity and decarbonisation objectives.”.
Lynas CEO and Managing Director, Amanda Lacaze, commented: “Lynas produces materials used in the manufacture of 21st Century technologies and we look forward to working with Zenith Energy as it delivers a 21st Century power solution for Mt Weld. As part of our commitment to reducing GHG emissions and progressively transitioning to cleaner energy sources, the existing Mt Weld diesel power plant will be decommissioned as soon as the thermal (gas) power station is completed. Moving away from the legacy diesel power plant to a gas-firmed hybrid renewable power station is a significant step in our GHG emissions reduction plan. Pleasingly, our commitment to renewable energy sources also offers a lower unit cost of power compared to a thermal-only power solution.”
Progress Update on Zenith Energy’s 24MW Wind Farm at Bellevue
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Progress Update on Zenith Energy’s 24MW Wind Farm at Bellevue
Construction of the Zenith Energy 24MW wind farm at Bellevue is progressing smoothly.
July 12, 2024
1min
Construction of the Zenith Energy 24MW wind farm at Bellevue is progressing smoothly.
Manufacturing of the Goldwind turbines is now complete, including all of the 82-metre-long blades, a critical components of the turbines.
The turbines are set to be shipped to Geraldton at the beginning of November 2024, and construction activities at the project site are moving forward efficiently.
This project underscores our commitment to expanding sustainable energy solutions.
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Achieving a Perfect Safety Record
Our approach to ZERO HARM focuses on our people, not just procedures.
July 08, 2024
1min
We are pleased to share that our Hybrid Power Project, the largest islanded hybrid power station in Australia, located at the Kathleen Valley site, has maintained ZERO HARM. Featuring a powerful combination of 30 MW of wind power, 17 MW of battery storage, 32 MW of thermal power, and 16 MW of solar power, this 95 MW facility underscores our commitment to safety and renewable energy.
At Zenith Energy, safety is not just a policy; it’s our culture. Ensuring that every team member goes home safe every day is our top priority. Our approach to ZERO HARM focuses on our people, not just procedures.
Major Milestone Achieved at Kathleen Valley Lithium Project
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Major Milestone Achieved at Kathleen Valley Lithium Project
Zenith Energy achieved COD for the Kathleen Valley Hybrid Power Station last weekend. This milestone marks the practical completion and commercial start of operations at Australia's largest islanded hybrid power station.
July 03, 2024
1min
Since 2015 Zenith has quietly worked to develop the concepts needed to reduce emissions, while collaborating with like-minded clients and original equipment manufacturers to pilot and integrate the technology required.
Zenith Energy achieved COD for the Kathleen Valley Hybrid Power Station last weekend. This milestone marks the practical completion and commercial start of operations at Australia’s largest islanded hybrid power station.
Recently, Liontown Resources Limited announced that its hybrid power station is complete, with all five GW165/6.0MW Goldwind turbines running, contributing to the total 95MW capacity.
We are proud of this joint achievement with Liontown and our commitment to sustainability and innovation in renewable energy.
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Jundee Wind Energy Update
Home News and Blog We are pleased to share further progress on our Jundee Renewable Energy Retrofit project in Western Australia. The @Goldwind Sany crane has arrived on-site and is currently installing the first GW 165/6.0MW wind turbine 03 lift. This wind farm when added to the recent commissioning of the solar farm will slash […]
July 02, 2024
1min
We are pleased to share further progress on our Jundee Renewable Energy Retrofit project in Western Australia.
The @Goldwind Sany crane has arrived on-site and is currently installing the first GW 165/6.0MW wind turbine 03 lift.
This wind farm when added to the recent commissioning of the solar farm will slash greenhouse gas emissions at the Jundee mining operation by more than half.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to drive innovation and sustainability in the energy sector!
Exploring Local Art: Zenith Sponsors of the 2024 Belmont Art Awards
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Exploring Local Art: Zenith Sponsors of the 2024 Belmont Art Awards
At Zenith, we take pride in supporting the flourishing of local art as sponsors of the Belmont Art Awards 2024.
June 28, 2024
1min
At Zenith, we take pride in supporting the flourishing of local art as sponsors of the Belmont Art Awards 2024.
This event highlights the creative richness of our local community and underscores our commitment to cultural expressions.
Event Date: August 30 to September 14, 2024 – Exhibition Period
Location: The Glasshouse at Faulkner Park
Join us at The Glasshouse to immerse yourself in the diversity of works by local, emerging, and professional artists. The Exhibition is open to the public from Tuesday to Saturday (10 am to 4 pm) and Sundays (1 pm to 4 pm). Mondays are open by appointment for group tours. This is a unique opportunity to appreciate the art that enriches our city and connects the community.
We are delighted to share some significant progress from our Jundee Solar Farm project, located in the heart of Western Australia’s gold mining region and supported by Northern Star Resources Ltd (Northern Star).
June 26, 2024
2min
We are delighted to share some significant progress from our Jundee Solar Farm project, located in the heart of Western Australia’s gold mining region and supported by Northern Star Resources Ltd (Northern Star).
Firstly, we are pleased to announce that the first Solar Farm Blocks were successfully commissioned and went online on 31 May 2024. This achievement represents a major step forward, as these blocks are now actively contributing solar energy to the Jundee Grid, enhancing our capacity to deliver clean and sustainable power to the region.
Additionally, the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) commissioning is underway with first solar energy captured and discharged. This system will play a crucial role in storing excess energy generated by the solar farm, providing a stable and reliable energy supply even during periods of low solar production. The integration of the BESS is a key component of our strategy to optimise renewable energy utilisation and maintain grid stability.
Northern Star’s Jundee Operation is an underground mining operation located in the Northern Goldfields region of Western Australia, approximately 45 km north-east of Wiluna and about 520 km north of Kalgoorlie. Northern Star Resources is an ASX-listed, global-scale Australian gold producer with world-class projects in Australia and North America.
Zenith Energy has been providing 46.6MW of power generation to the Jundee mine using natural gas-fuelled generators since 2016. Recently, we signed a renewable energy Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Northern Star Resources for their Jundee mining operation. This includes adding 24 MW of wind, 16.9 MWp of solar, and 12 MW / 13.4 MWh of battery storage, providing up to 56% of the mine site’s power.
These developments help Zenith Energy achieve its goal of reducing carbon intensity by 20% by 2025 from our 2020 baseline. This milestone is a result of the incredible work of our staff and strong relationships with our partners.
Zenith Energy is a proud industry supporter of Curtin University’s successful bid to become the Operator of the new WA GreenTech Hub.
June 14, 2024
1min
The WA Cook Government has named Curtin University as the Operator of the new WA GreenTechHub. This Hub will play a key role in driving decarbonisation in WA through collaboration, industry, and knowledge.
Zenith Energy is a proud industry supporter of Curtin’s bid to operate this pioneering initiative. We’re committed to decarbonising our portfolio and achieving net zero by 2035. We look forward to working with the GreenTech Hub and WA technology businesses on energy solutions to achieve affordable, reliable, net zero power for our customers in the mining sector, the Goldfields region of WA and our grid-connected microgrids.
The GreenTech Hub is funded through a $40 million agreement between the Cook Government and the Chevron-operated Gorgon Project. The Lower Carbon Grants (LCG) programme will provide funding for research and innovation activities in low-carbon technologies.
Zenith Energy has been honoured for the second year in a row at The Asset Triple A Sustainable Infrastructure Awards 2024, being awarded with the Energy Transition Deal of the Year
June 12, 2024
2min
Zenith Energy has been honoured for the second year in a row at The Asset Triple A Sustainable Infrastructure Awards 2024, being awarded with the Energy Transition Deal of the Year!
Our A$320 million revolving credit facility has been recognised for advancing renewable energy solutions and driving the energy transition in the mining sector.
We are thankful to all our clients, partners, bankers and employees for their continuous support and hard work.
We’ve taken significant steps forward, from being the first Independent Power Producer to introduce the industry-benchmark Jenbacher gas engine into the Australian market, right through to our most recent partnership with IGO – providing 100% renewable daytime penetration at Nova operations in the WA Goldfields
While commercial drivers must be acknowledged as a major factor in the entire industry moving to decarbonise, at Zenith we are equally invested in the moral responsibility of reducing emissions.
As an organisation we have developed a workplace culture based on strong relationships, with an emphasis on honesty, integrity, and respect.
It is from this base that we can genuinely strive to make a difference, which is a major motivation in our proactive pursuit of Net Zero.
Our culture is one of innovation and growth, looking at perceived challenges as opportunities to develop our people and employ their unique skills to come up with unique solutions.
We have a deep conviction that not only should we reduce emissions, but we also want to be part of the developing solutions and bring our clients and the mining and resources industry on the journey to Net Zero with us.
Zenith has publicly stated its commitment to Net Zero by 2035, and while we acknowledge this is an ambitious target, it’s also one we are confident we have the ability to achieve together with our partners.
For some time now we have been actively involved in the development and piloting of various technologies, with the aim of being able to integrate these into our existing portfolio and on future projects.
It means we have built a solid reputation of being able to deliver innovative renewable solutions, able to respond to the needs of our clients at differing stages on their journey to Net Zero.
As the rate of change continues to accelerate throughout industry and globally, Zenith is committed to continuing to adapt, adopt and integrate emerging technologies, not just because we believe should, but because we believe we can.
Milestone Achieved: Final Turbine Installed at Kathleen Valley
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Milestone Achieved: Final Turbine Installed at Kathleen Valley
We are excited to announce the installation of the final turbine, marking a key milestone. With five GW165/6.0MW Goldwind turbines now operational, we are on track to power Liontown Resources' Kathleen Valley Lithium Project with 60% renewable energy by mid-2024.
May 29, 2024
2min
We are thrilled to announce the installation of the final turbine, marking a significant milestone in our journey towards sustainable energy production.
With a total of 5 (five) GW165/6.0MW towering Goldwind turbines now standing tall, we’re well on our way to achieving our goal of powering Liontown Resources Limited Kathleen Valley Lithium Project with at least 60% renewable energy by mid-2024. Our Hybrid Power Station, boasting an impressive 46MW of emissions-free power generation capacity, is set to become the largest off-grid wind-solar-battery storage renewable capacity for a mining project in Australia.
These turbines, each reaching over 210 meters in height with blades spanning 81 meters, symbolise our commitment to innovation and sustainability in the Australian mining industry. As strategic partners in this groundbreaking venture, we’re proud to lead the charge in revolutionising how mining operations are powered.
Zenith Energy does it again: Awarded the IJGlobal Energy Transition Deal of the Year – Solar – APAC
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Zenith Energy does it again: Awarded the IJGlobal Energy Transition Deal of the Year – Solar – APAC
Zenith Energy: Awarded the IJGlobal Energy Transition Deal of the Year - Solar – APAC
April 26, 2024
2min
Zenith Energy has been awarded the IJGlobal Energy Transition Deal of the Year – Solar – APAC, a prestigious recognition of excellence in the infrastructure, energy, and renewables sector globally during 2023.
The event IJ Global Awards took place in Singapore and was received by our Executive Chair Doug Walker and CFO Tim Cipolloni. This award reflects Zenith’s and our banking syndicates’ commitment to excellence in the energy transition.
Zenith Energy Explores Collaboration with Hon. Reece Whitby MLA to Propel Western Australia’s Energy Transition
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Zenith Energy Explores Collaboration with Hon. Reece Whitby MLA to Propel Western Australia’s Energy Transition
Zenith Energy’s Executive Chairman, Doug Walker, and Managing Director and CEO, Hamish Moffat, recently held a productive meeting with Hon. Reece Whitby MLA, Minister for Energy, Environment, and Climate Action.
April 18, 2024
4min
Zenith Energy’s Executive Chairman, Doug Walker, and Managing Director and CEO, Hamish Moffat, recently held a productive meeting with Hon. Reece Whitby MLA, Minister for Energy, Environment, and Climate Action. Discussions centred around Zenith Energy’s role as a leading enabler of the energy transition and achieving Net Zero emissions in the markets where we operate – mining and urban microgrids.
In the past 18 months, Zenith has contracted and commenced construction of the most of Western Australia’s high renewable energy fraction hybrid power solutions for remote off-grid mines and grid-connected urban microgrids in Western Australia’s South West Interconnected System (SWIS).
Zenith has also been collaborating with stakeholders in WA’s Goldfields on development of a power solution to provide the region with affordable energy security and a fast track to Net Zero. These outcomes align with the State’s intent to avoid the recurrence of protracted blackouts in Kalgoorlie experienced earlier this year, and to introduce more renewable energy, particularly from the Northern Goldfields into the SWIS.
Mr. Moffat, Managing Director and CEO of Zenith, said the development aims to deliver Traditional Owners meaningful participation in the Energy Transition; for miners more affordable and sustainable renewable energy; and for the region and state an economic boost by activating land for downstream processing of critical and battery minerals.
PoweringWA, which was recently set-up within Energy Policy WA are seeking support from Commonwealth programs such the Capacity Investment Scheme (CIS) and Rewiring the Nation to facilitate a more renewable and reliable power system for the Goldfields.
The Kathleen Valley Project is progressing rapidly
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The Kathleen Valley Project is progressing rapidly
We are proud to be a strategic partner for Liontown Resources’ Kathleen Valley Lithium Project, an innovative venture that will revolutionise how the Australian mining industry is powered.
April 08, 2024
1min
Production with 60% renewable energy is on track for mid-2024.
We are proud to be a strategic partner for Liontown Resources’ Kathleen Valley Lithium Project, an innovative venture that will revolutionise how the Australian mining industry is powered.
Our Hybrid Power Station is nearing completion to provide over 60% renewable energy from the outset, a milestone achievement for remote off-grid power in the mining industry.
Michael Buzzard is the Executive of IPP Growth at Zenith Energy, spearheading the company’s expansion in the independent power producer sector. With over 25 years’ experience in business development and commercial management, Michael specialises in sustainable energy solutions and strategic partnerships that foster growth and innovation.
Mark Sputore
GENERAL COUNSEL & COMPANY SECRETARY
Mark Sputore is an experienced in-house legal professional with 20 years of industry expertise. Since joining Zenith Energy in 2023 as General Counsel & Company Secretary, he has been responsible for overseeing legal, governance, and regulatory matters, ensuring compliance and strategic risk management. His extensive experience in corporate law and energy sector regulations supports Zenith Energy’s commitment to operational excellence and sustainable growth.
Abby Kenward
EXECUTIVE HUMAN RESOURCES
Abby Kenward is a Human Resources Executive with the ability to optimise businesses by effectively resourcing, managing, developing and deploying people. Over twelve years’ experience in implementing and managing HR & IR business functions, including; Resourcing, Remuneration and Benefits, Learning and Development, Performance Management, Employee Relations and Strategic Planning. This experience has been gained across a range of industries; consulting, oil and gas, engineering, construction and non for profits.
Dominic Da Cruz
EXECUTIVE ESG AND STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
Dominic has 25 years international commercial experience with the past 15 years in senior executive energy sector business development and leadership roles. He has shaped strategy, business direction and led market development in renewables and microgrids across the public and private sector. Dominic has led a range of professional clean energy and microgrid projects as consultant and project director with energy utilities, remote communities, mining operations, commercial and industrial property developers. Dominic was responsible for the founding and building one of the longest standing successful private clean energy businesses in Australia. He was also the Project Director for the creation of a new statutory electricity corporation for the WA government with 800,000 customers
Tim Cipolloni
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Tim joined Zenith Energy as Executive Corporate Development in April 2021, moving into the Chief Financial Officer role in January 2023.
Tim leads the Finance, IT and Corporate Development functions at Zenith. Tim is an experienced executive and has held a number of finance and corporate development roles with South32 and BHP. Prior to his current role with Zenith, he was the Head of Treasury and Corporate Finance for South32. He has a Bachelor degree in Commerce and Law and a Master of Applied Finance.
Elvin Heng
EXECUTIVE CONTRACTS, COMMERCIAL AND PROCUREMENT
Elvin has over 25 years experience in the energy industry including as an upstream oil & gas industry executive across the LNG value chain for fixed and floating small to mid-scale Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) projects in USA, Canada, China, Africa, Southeast Asia, Australia & Papua New Guinea. Elvin is experienced in establishing new domestic virtual pipeline natural gas markets and expanding existing market offerings for the LNG fuels and power sector including initiating, evaluating and delivering sanctioned business cases to realize target ROI. Elvin has previously held executive management roles for an ASX top 50 energy operator delivering a baseload LNG project in Papua New Guinea, and for specialist SME consulting companies in the Australasian region supporting both onshore and offshore Exploration & Production activities.
Simon Jelly
CHIEF TECHNICAL OFFICER
Simon Jelly is a Specialist Electrical technician who has +20 years’ experience in the remote power industry. He is highly skilled in Gas, Diesel, and Hybrid renewable power stations, having designed, commissioned, and constructed numerous power stations throughout WA and the NT Mining Industries. Simon has strong leadership skills having grown a successful design and construction team at Zenith over 10 years. Simon has been responsible for designing, engineering and the construction of new projects, managing all technical aspects of the business including, operational efficiency initiatives, the tender process, as well as R&D.
Russell Purdy
MANAGER HSEQ
Russell has over 38 years’ experience in safety management roles across the mining, energy, power and drilling industries. Most recently, he was the Contract HSE/HR Manager overseeing Drillwest and Acqua Drill Resources through his own company RP Hazard, Risk and Training Solutions. Previously he held roles with BHP Billiton, Wesfarmers Energy (Kleenheat Gas), Western Power and Boart Longyear. Russell’s expertise includes risk identification and management, development and implementation of Management Systems to Australian Standards and ensuring a compliance focus with safety in design.
Graham Cooper
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Graham is an electrical technician and experienced manager having worked in the IPP industry with Doug for many years, he has over 30 years’ experience in designing, constructing, and operating, remote area’s power stations and renewable energy systems. He is responsible for, managing all engineering, project construction, and operational/maintenance aspects of the business, including the company HSEQ and Human resources teams.
Hamish Moffat
MANAGING DIRECTOR
Hamish has extensive experience in the downstream oil industry gained primarily in building markets in numerous sectors across Asia, Europe and the US. Hamish was most recently the Chief Executive Officer of a private commercial services company, which he sold into a major public services conglomerate in the second half of 2015. Previously he was the Chief Executive Officer of a privately held oil distribution company, which holds exclusive distribution rights to a major international brand and has performed roles as Segment Director and Marketing Director for one of the world’s largest oil companies.
Doug Walker
EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN
Doug is a 35-year veteran of the power generation industry. He has designed and built more than 60 remote power stations across Australasia, initially through his own company, StateWest Power and later through Zenith Pacific, which he co-founded in 2006. StateWest was subsequently acquired by Wesfarmers Energy. Doug is recognised in the industry for his innovative thinking, both in finding effective solutions to difficult power generation problems and for creating the now widely-recognised Build – Own – Operate (BOO) approach to the establishment of remote area power plants.
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