it is for backup in one location where it regularly kicks in due to power fluctuation and demand. In other it is used to generate elecricity to supply the township and local mine. They proposed to use solar at the mine site but never happened as it was not as reliable as diesel generators and battery storage is not yet a viable option to supply the required electricity supply. Remote areas are not like cities and renewables are not developed technically enough for consistent power supply for 24 hours per day whereas diesel power is reliable and can be run 24 hours per day. Maybe a centrally located small nuclear plant in remote areas could supply local townships and mines at lower cost and less potential environmental risk.
