EXXARO Resources is becoming greener. The group told investors during its Capital Markets Day this week it was diversifying its portfolio to consist of renewable energy and minerals, with a focus on wind and solar power, bauxite, copper and manganese in response to climate change.
Exxaro said at the core of its strategy was managing the embedded risk of carbon by diversifying earnings away from carbon-based commodities while also reducing the company’s carbon footprint.
Financial director Riaan Koppeschaar said Exxaro had a strong balance sheet and cash generative coal operations at the core of its business and the group was among the world’s most efficient and low-cost coal producers.
“However, we have a long-term vision and need to adapt to the dynamics of a low carbon future.
“Exxaro will utilise its mining skills to supply minerals that power a cleaner world while providing shareholders with superior returns from the combination of the minerals business representing 50 percent of expected coal earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation within 10 years and the predictable cash generation of the renewable energy business.
“Our improved governance process, reinforced from past learnings, will be a key foundation for our success,” said Koppeschaar.
Exxaro is Eskom’s biggest supplier and operates among others the Grootegeluk, Leeuwpan and Mafube coal mines.
Chief executive designate and managing director for minerals Nombasa Tsengwa, said the group embarked on its journey of transformation over a decade ago, gaining a head start in renewable energy through a joint venture in renewable energy business Cennergi.
Cennergi is South Africa’s second largest Independent Power Producer.
“This provided a platform for growth and evolution from coal-dominated operations to a diversified minerals producer focusing on manganese, bauxite and copper, as well as a renewable energy business.
“Our transition to a low-carbon future places us on a pathway that will have a positive impact on our stakeholders and society at large,” said Tsengwa.
Chief executive Mxolisi Mgojo said climate change had become the focal point not only of the business, but of society and the global community.
“The world is under pressure to transition faster and that presents new opportunities.
“This dynamic environment affirms our approach of maximising the value of our coal assets through the early value coal strategy, thus minimising stranded coal assets while building a low carbon and resilient business,” Mgojo said.
BUSINESS REPORT