COAL & ENERGY
We mine coal... because the world still needs what we produce – for power, for development, for a shared future.” high-quality coal developments such as Zibulo, while also pursuing gas projects. South Africa’ s energy reality, where coal generates approximately 80 % of electricity, makes these investments essential, he says.
Technological innovation: Cleaner coal is possible Madondo was quick to emphasise that coal’ s future hinges on technology. He cited carbon capture and storage( CCS) advancements, high-efficiency lowemission( HELE) plants and operational efficiency improvements as key to making coal cleaner.
“ China has already rolled out over 50 carbon capture units,” he said.“ The cost of CCS has dropped by nearly 50 % in recent years.”
Thungela itself is applying tech-driven optimisations across its operations, boosting productivity while reducing environmental impact.“ Efficiency doesn’ t just reduce carbon intensity, it also improves profitability,” he added.
Human development and responsible mining Madondo reminded delegates of a simple yet profound fact: modern life is impossible without mining. And while coal has its environmental critics, the narrative
often overlooks its role in driving economic growth, poverty reduction and infrastructure development.
“ We mine coal not because we like looking at black rocks,” he quipped,“ but because the world still needs what we produce – for power, for development, for a shared future.”
He urged investors, regulators, and society to resist simplistic solutions.“ Decarbonisation must happen,” he said,“ but not at the expense of human development.”
Coal’ s role in a balanced energy future Madondo’ s message was clear: coal is not going away anytime soon. Its role in energy security, especially in developing economies, remains critical, and that role must be respected, responsibly managed and technologically improved.
“ Coal remains a stabilising force that requires a balance between ambition and availability, transition and inclusion, as well as long-term goals and immediate realities.”
As Thungela Resources enters a new leadership era under Madondo, it does so with a steady hand and a clear-eyed view of the future. �
28 sabusinessintegrator. co. za