In the wake of the South African energy crisis, Ridge Mining is considering alternative energy outlets to supply its platinum mining operations as many companies cease production.

A statement from Ridge Mining read: "Although Eskom has recently reconfirmed to the company the provision of supply to Blue Ridge, the company is considering available alternatives to ensure there will be no disruption to production."

Ridge Mining is in the process of developing the Blue Ridge platinum group metals (pgm) mine in South Africa's Bushveld Complex and production is due to begin in the fourth quarter of 2008.

The firm is also developing Sheba's Ridge alongside Anglo Platinum and the Industrial Development Corporation.

"The electricity requirements for Sheba's Ridge will be significantly higher than Blue Ridge due to its size and the need for additional smelting capacity," the statement continued.

Supply of electricity could become a factor affecting the audit of the Sheba Ridge facility that is currently underway with the results due in the first quarter of 2008.

Source:

Ridge Mining seeks alternative to Eskom, 29/01/08
http://www.busrep.co.za/index.php?fSectionId=&fArticleId=4228894

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