Metinvest launches gas generators at Northern Mining to achieve energy independence

As part of a program to ensure the energy independence of Metinvest Group companies, two gas generators have been operating at the Northern Mining and Processing Plant (Northern Mining) since July. In two months of operation, they have generated 1,040 MWh of electricity and achieved economic benefits of UAH 2.3 million. In total, four such units are planned to be installed, according to a press release from Metinvest.Media.

The idea to create its own power supply sources arose in August last year, when the company’s management set the task of finding a solution for the stable operation of enterprises in the event of blackouts. After considering various options, it was decided to invest in gas generation. The contract for the equipment was signed in November 2024, and within six months, two 2.8 MW units were connected to the networks of the main step-down substation No. 2.

Energy management specialists have proven that the use of generators is beneficial not only during emergency outages, but also during peak loads on Ukraine’s power grid. According to Maxim Strilets, head of the energy management department, the equipment is run for an average of 6-8 hours a day, depending on the market price of electricity.

As part of the second phase of the project, Northern Mining plans to launch two more gas generators, which will be connected to substation No. 4. A separate section of operators and a foreman has been created to maintain them.

Igor Tonev, CEO of the plant, emphasized that investments of UAH 473 million in its own energy sources will increase production stability.

“This will help reduce the cost of purchasing electricity, ensure balance when the enterprise’s electricity supply is limited, and allow the enterprise to be shut down safely and without damage to equipment during power outages. These are significant factors that will strengthen the viability of the mining and processing plant,” Tonev concluded.

In August this year, Metinvest resumed construction of a thickening complex at the Northern Mining. It will enable the enterprise to reduce costs, cut energy consumption, lower water consumption, and reduce the burden on the environment. The company received a €23.6 million loan to implement the project. The loan was provided by Deutsche Bank with the support of the Finnish export credit agency Finnvera, and the equipment is being supplied by Metso Finland.