Paramaribo, Suriname, November 29 2025
Zijin Rosebel Gold Mines has officially commissioned the Zijin Rosebel Solar Power Station, marking the inauguration of Suriname’s first large scale centralized solar facility. The historic commissioning ceremony welcomed more than one hundred guests, including the Special Representative of the President of the Republic of Suriname and Minister of Public Works Stephen Tsang, Minister of Oil Gas and Environment Patrick Brunnings, Counselor Liu Zhenhua of the Chinese Embassy in Suriname, CEO of Zijin Gold International Company Guo Xianjian, representatives of national government agencies, parliament members, the Rosebel Supervisory Board, labor unions, and the plant constructor and owner Zijin Longking.
The launch of this landmark facility represents a new stage for Suriname in clean energy development and advances low carbon mining practices across South America.
Government and Diplomatic Leaders Commend the Project
Speaking on behalf of His Excellency President Simons, Minister Stephen Tsang congratulated Zijin Rosebel Gold Mines and praised the successful completion of the solar project. He emphasized that the facility demonstrates Suriname’s commitment to strengthening its green and diversified energy structure and expressed confidence that more similar renewable energy projects will contribute to local economic development and job creation.
Counselor Liu Zhenhua of the Chinese Embassy highlighted China’s progress toward a green and sustainable future under its upcoming Fifteenth Five Year Plan. He noted that the commissioning of the Zijin Rosebel Solar Power Station gives new momentum to China and Suriname cooperation in green economic development.
Zijin Strength Driving Global Green Mining
In his address, CEO of Zijin Gold International Company Guo Xianjian stated that the successful commissioning of the solar power station is a vivid example of Zijin’s commitment to developing modern and environmentally friendly mines worldwide. He reaffirmed Zijin’s efforts to contribute to global carbon peak and carbon neutrality goals. CEO Guo expressed his appreciation to the Government of Suriname, ministries, and partner institutions for their continuous support and encouraged the Rosebel team to keep contributing Zijin strength to the transformation of the mining sector and the long term sustainable development of the region.
Clean Energy Impact and Technical Highlights
The first phase of the Zijin Rosebel Solar Power Station provides an installed capacity of twenty five megawatts and is designed to generate approximately thirty eight million kilowatt hours of electricity annually. This clean energy output is equivalent to saving one hundred sixty six thousand tonnes of standard coal per year and significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants.
The project uses Suriname’s abundant solar resources to deliver stable renewable energy directly to the Rosebel operation through seven high voltage four point sixteen kilovolt transmission lines connected to the T1 and T2 substations. The system includes anti backflow protection and an EMS control system to ensure power stability and efficiency. The solar output will also reduce pressure on the national grid.
Electricity currently accounts for a major portion of Rosebel’s production costs. The solar facility will help reduce energy expenses, increase energy stability, and improve power conditions both at and around the mine, contributing to sustainable long term operations.
Six Month Completion Demonstrates Strong Execution
The project was completed within six months, showcasing efficient collaboration between Zijin Longking and the Rosebel team. Limited shipping capacity to Suriname and the large volume of equipment presented significant challenges for transportation and customs clearance. Through optimized logistics planning and close coordination among all departments, key equipment arrived on schedule, enabling successful commissioning. This achievement reflects the determination and execution capabilities of the Zijin team.
Commitment to a Green and Low Carbon Future
Looking ahead, Rosebel will continue expanding its solar power capacity to further increase the share of renewable energy in its energy portfolio. The site aims to reduce electricity costs, enhance energy resilience, and accelerate its transition toward a green and low carbon mine. Rosebel remains committed to writing a new chapter for Zijin Mining in Suriname as it moves toward becoming a green high tech leading global mining company.
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