Oreconnect Projects
Overview of innovation

1. Executive Summary

Oreconnect Projects is an SMME based in Postmasburg, Northern Cape, specializing in the deployment of Mobile Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). We bridge the gap between fixed energy infrastructure and the immediate, high-capacity power needs of the mining, industrial, and defense sectors. Our "Power-as-a-Service" model facilitates rapid industrial decarbonization and energy security without the need for permanent, high-cost infrastructure.

2. Value Proposition & Innovation

  • Mobile BESS Units: Unlike traditional stationary storage, our units (ranging from 500kWh to 2MW) are containerized and ruggedized for rapid deployment in harsh environments, such as the Anglo American Kumba Iron ore,Kolomela and Exarro Resources, Grootegeluk mines.
  • Zero-Infrastructure Deployment: We solve the "last mile" energy problem for remote industrial sites and tactical military bases (e.g., Lohatla Tactical Training Centre), allowing for immediate integration of renewable energy without long-term construction delays.
  • Innovation Alignment: Our technology directly supports the DSTI’s Hydrogen South Africa (HySA) strategy and the Hydrogen Society Roadmap by providing the necessary storage buffer for green energy transition projects in the Northern Cape’s mining corridor.

3. Strategic Impact & Socio-Economic Contribution

  • Regional Development: As a locally-owned entity in the Tsantsabane Local Municipality, Oreconnect Projects contributes to the economic revitalization of the Northern Cape, a priority province for the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA).
  • Industrial Decarbonization: By enabling mines to capture and shift solar/wind energy to peak periods, we reduce reliance on carbon-intensive grid power and diesel generators.
  • Empowerment: We are a majority-black-owned SMME (60% lead representation) actively participating in Accelerate Africa, committed to building high-tier technical skills within the local community.

4. Operational Readiness & Partnerships

  • Compliance: Fully registered on the SAP Ariba Network and Informed 365, ensuring we meet the rigorous responsible sourcing standards of global mining houses.
  • Strategic Pipeline: Currently engaging with Kumba Iron Ore, Exxaro Resources, and the SANDF for pilot project implementation and tactical energy solutions.
  • Technical Ecosystem: Exploring a joint venture with Machite Engineering to enhance our electrical infrastructure capabilities for high-stakes projects like the SKA1 tender.

5. Project Goals for Innovation Bridge

Through this application, Oreconnect Projects seeks to:

  1. Scale Prototypes: Transition our BESS mobile units from pilot phase to full-scale commercial deployment.
  2. Commercialization: Leverage the Innovation Bridge network to secure additional off-take agreements and venture partnerships.
  3. R&D Expansion: Align with DSTI-funded research initiatives to integrate next-generation storage chemistries and green hydrogen compatibility into our mobile units.

 

Innovation Opportunity Type
Collaboration
Funding
Licensing
Manufacturing
Industry
​Mining and quarrying
Other Manufacturing
Mining support service activities
​Electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply
Electricty, gas, steam, and air conditioning supply
​Construction
Specialised construction activities
​Transportation and storage
Land transport and transport via pipelines
​Other service activities
Technology Readiness Level
TRL 6 – Prototype tested in real-world settings