Codelco shortlists 12 bidders for solar thermal plant

Dec 6, 2011 - Chile's state-run copper miner Codelco has shortlisted 12 companies to compete for the construction and operation of a solar thermal plant, which will heat water for Codelco's Gaby mine.

The heat will be used in the electro-winning process, for which Codelco currently burns 9,000 cu m (317,800 cu ft) of diesel a year.

The project will initially cover up to 30% of the electro-winning plant's heat demand. Later, the solar plant could supply up to 80% of the necessary heat which will save 20,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions a year, Codelco said.

The company plans to develop similar projects in other mining facilities in Chile.

Gaby's copper cathode output exceeded 117,000 tonnes in 2010.

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