South Africa's mining industry has long been the backbone of its economy, contributing significantly to the national GDP, local community upliftment and employment. However, the sector is at a pivotal juncture; navigating significant challenges including energy insecurity, rising operational costs, and the urgent global imperative to decarbonise. These challenges are not insurmountable, but require a bold and collaborative approach that leverages the expertise and innovation of the energy sector to forge a more efficient, sustainable, and inclusive future.

As TotalEnergies in South Africa, we see an incredible opportunity for a symbiotic partnership with the mining industry: one that goes beyond traditional fuel supply and the provision of highly-specialised technical expertise to embed efficiency, drive the energy transition, and deliver tangible socio-economic benefits in line with South Africa's developmental agenda.

As a trusted partner to the mining sector for more than 20 years, our organisation seamlessly integrates with our customers to improve efficiency across their value chain. Operational efficiency in mining is paramount; especially as mines progress, evolve and face increased cost pressures - and multi-energy companies can play a transformative role by providing integrated energy management solutions and advanced technologies.

Our Company operates in 120 countries, and this global network offers us the ability to draw knowledge and expertise across different markets and sectors. Our commercial and technical experts work closely with our customers on their road-map so they can achieve their annual (and especially net zero) objectives. This knowledge enables our technical experts to understand which strategies can be deployed to analyse and optimise energy use, predict maintenance needs for heavy machinery, and improve overall operational planning; thereby reducing our customers' waste while boosting their productivity.

The primary lever for decarbonising the South African mining sector is a cleaner, more reliable energy supply. TotalEnergies remains committed to enabling this transition through several pathways. Our focus in introducing a clean-energy mix which also includes renewable energy technologies such as solar PV, wind, and battery storage.

As a Level 1 B-BBEE certified company and a firm believer in uplifting communities where we operate, we believe that a sustainable mining industry must be intrinsically linked to the welfare and economic development of its host communities. Our local Enterprise Development (LED) Programme, deigned in collaboration with our customers, aligns with this spirit. We help them fulfill their local community procurement requirements by tailoring a fit-for-purpose programme.

The LED programme also allows our customers to invest in skills development in the local communities in which they operate. This includes supporting black-owned small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to become part of the integrated mining and energy supply chain.

The future of mining in South Africa depends on innovation, collaboration, and a shared commitment to a smooth and just energy transition. By harnessing the synergies between the multi-energy and mining sectors, we can power South Africa's growth, transform its energy and production landscape, and ensure prosperity is shared by all.