The Timken Company, a global industrial leader in engineered bearings and power transmission products, has been selected as the exclusive provider of advanced precision drives for the Redstone Solar Thermal Power project in Northern Cape, South Africa. BrightSource Energy chose Timken’s solar-tracking technology, developed by its Cone Drive business, to properly position Redstone’s heliostat mirrors to reflect the sun’s rays. The facility will store the thermal energy it collects in molten salt and convert it to electricity for delivery to South African consumers day and night.

“Our expertise in application engineering is a differentiating factor that customers look for in a partner,” said Kurt Gamelin, president, Cone Drive. “We work side-by-side with world-leading solar power providers and developers like BrightSource, offering innovative technology and solutions that help advance their products. These close partnerships lead to enhanced performance, extended product life and reliable operations for the customers we serve. It’s rewarding to know that our engineering expertise is helping to create a more efficient and resilient world.”

Expected to begin commercial operations by the end of 2023, Redstone is capable of generating up to 100 MW, South Africa’s largest renewable energy project to date. The facility is entirely emissions-free, with no requirement for natural gas or oil back up. Furthermore, Redstone significantly reduces water consumption for cooling by using an efficient, low-water dry cooling system.

Timken’s contributions to Redstone demonstrate its commitment to advancing environmental sustainability through product innovation, operational excellence and technology. The company has invested heavily in research and development for the solar energy market sector, building strong manufacturing, engineering and testing capabilities in both the United States and China.

Renewable energy, which consists of both solar and wind, is Timken’s single-largest end-market sector, representing approximately 12 percent of total company sales in 2021.