Technology 19 Sep 2024

Unlocking sustainable energy solutions with Keystone Milling

Collaboration leads to sustainable energy solutions for Keystone Milling

The context

Keystone Milling Company (Pty) Ltd is a leading manufacturer and supplier of high-quality maize products. Formerly known as Rustenburg Meule, the company was established in 1971, and in 2000, Keystone Milling (Pty) Ltd was formed.

The company serves a growing client base in South Africa and neighbouring countries, with their products including super maize meal, special maize meal, samp, maize rice, braaipap, fine meal and hominy chop (used for animal feed).

The problem

Keystone Milling’s buildings, including their administrative and logistics structures, require a reliable electricity supply.

Following constant disruptions to their power supply in late 2023 and increased reliance on generators, the company decided to invest in alternative energy to ensure stability and control at their facility in Rustenburg.

The solution

Keystone Milling sought guidance from us on how to manage and finance their renewable energy project efficiently and cost-effectively.

As the Best Bank in Africa*, we’re committed to empowering our clients with solutions that enable them to overcome energy-related challenges, which is why we partnered with Keystone Milling.

We provide them with reputable suppliers from our approved list of vendors in the renewable energy market, including the financing and installation of a grid-tied solar PV system.

The system consists of 1 118 x 545w CANADIAN SOLAR modules, which generate 973 000kWh of power.

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“The strong relationship between Standard Bank and Keystone Milling (Pty) Ltd has supported our client to be more sustainable, providing them with access to the expertise of our specialists to meet their goals and aspirations of reducing their carbon footprint as they aspire to be more environmentally friendly, not only reducing their carbon footprint but adding value by reducing operating costs”, says Shireen Hargreaves, Relationship Manager, Premium – Standard Bank

The outcome

The implementation of the new solar PV system has enabled Keystone Milling to power its offices and some of its packaging machines as needed.

This switch has not only helped reduce the company's carbon footprint by decreasing their reliance on generators but also resulted in a 15% saving on their total monthly electricity expenditure.

“Keystone Milling (Pty) Ltd invested in solar energy to exemplify a forward-thinking approach that combines economic and environmental benefits. Standard Bank’s support by partnering on this project enabled Keystone Milling (Pty) Ltd to reap substantial rewards. These benefits include a reduced carbon footprint, electricity savings, leading to lower operational costs, and a return on investment,” says Alec Wenhold – Financial Manager, Keystone Milling Co Pty Ltd

The successful collaboration between us, vendors and Keystone Milling improved their operations and benefitted their broader ecosystem.

Inspired by this success, we continue to pioneer sustainable solutions that empower clients, businesses and their communities by fostering a resilient and thriving environment.