The Grootegeluk Coal Mine, a flagship operation of Exxaro Resources, is one of the largest open-pit coal mines in the southern hemisphere. Located in the Waterberg Coalfield, Limpopo province, it plays a vital role in South Africa’s energy and industrial sectors. This article delves into the mine’s history, operations, products, and impact on local and international markets, making it a comprehensive guide for anyone interested in South Africa’s coal mining industry.
Where Is Grootegeluk Coal Mine?
The Grootegeluk Coal Mine is situated 25 km west of Lephalale in Limpopo, South Africa. This prime location within the Waterberg Coalfield provides access to substantial coal reserves, which are pivotal to South Africa’s power generation and metallurgical industries. The mine is strategically connected to major infrastructure, including roads, power supply, and water pipelines sourced from Mokolo Dam.
Key Facts About Grootegeluk Coal Mine
- Established: The mine began operations in 1980 under the ownership of Iscor (later Kumba) before becoming a part of Exxaro Resources.
- Employees: Grootegeluk employs approximately 3,200 people, making it a significant contributor to the local economy.
- Coal Production: Produces 26 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) of final coal products, including:
- 22Mtpa Power Station Coal for Eskom’s Matimba and Medupi power stations.
- 2.5Mtpa Semi-Soft Coking Coal, largely supplied to Mittal SA.
- 1Mtpa Export Coal, shipped via the Richards Bay Coal Terminal.
- Mining Method: Open-pit mining using advanced truck-and-shovel operations.
Coal Reserves and Resources
Grootegeluk boasts some of the most extensive coal reserves in South Africa:
- Measured Coal Resource: 4,719 million tonnes (Mt).
- Minable Reserve: 3,261 Mt.
- Proven Reserves: 1,730 Mt.
The coal deposits are derived from two main formations:
- Volksrust Formation: A thick interbedded seam with mudstone, shale, and bright coal layers.
- Vryheid Formation: Comprising dull coal seams and interbedded carbonaceous shale.
The mine’s reserves are estimated to last well beyond the current mining rights’ expiry, ensuring long-term stability and production.
Beneficiation and Product Range
The Grootegeluk beneficiation complex includes eight processing plants capable of producing various coal products:
- Power Station Coal: 35% ash thermal coal delivered to Eskom.
- Metallurgical Coal: High-quality coal with 15% ash and 11.25% ash grades.
- Semi-Soft Coking Coal: 10.3% ash product used in steelmaking.
- Steam Coal: 12.5% ash product for domestic and export markets.
Market and Economic Impact
Domestic Market
Grootegeluk is integral to South Africa’s energy grid, supplying coal directly to Matimba and Medupi power stations via a 7 km conveyor belt system. The mine also supplies metallurgical coal to local industries under short- and long-term contracts.
Export Market
Approximately 1Mtpa of semi-soft coking and thermal coal is exported through the Richards Bay Coal Terminal, contributing to South Africa’s export revenue.
Sustainability and Environmental Initiatives
Exxaro has shown a strong commitment to sustainable practices, as evident from the establishment of Cennergi, its renewable energy subsidiary. Grootegeluk’s mining operations incorporate advanced techniques like in-pit crushing and conveying to minimize environmental impact. Additionally, water recycling and backfilling of mined-out voids form part of the mine’s eco-friendly initiatives.
Infrastructure and Accessibility
- Transport: The mine is accessible via Nelson Mandela Drive, linked to the R510 road.
- Power Supply: Two 132kV lines supply power to the mine.
- Water Supply: Water is sourced from the Mokolo Dam through a robust pipeline network.
Overview of Public Universities in South Africa
Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.
University of Pretoria
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
- Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.
University of Cape Town
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
- Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.
Stellenbosch University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
- Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.
University of the Witwatersrand
- Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
- Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.
University of Johannesburg
- Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
- Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.
University of the Free State
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.
University of Venda
- Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
- Application Period: Usually from May to September.
University of Fort Hare
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
- Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.
University of the Western Cape
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
- Application Period: Generally from May to September.
North-West University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
- Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.
Rhodes University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
- Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.
Nelson Mandela University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
- Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.
University of Limpopo
- Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
- Application Period: From April to September.
University of Zululand
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
- Application Period: Usually between April and November.
Central University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
- Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.
Vaal University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
- Application Period: Typically from May to September.
Walter Sisulu University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
- Application Period: From April to September.
This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.