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Can Australia Accelerate Underground Mine Electrification for a Zero-Carbon Future?

Can Australia Accelerate Underground Mine Electrification for a Zero-Carbon Future?

Australia’s mining sector is under increasing pressure to expedite the electrification of underground mining equipment as part of its broader decarbonisation efforts. While battery-electric technology and renewable energy solutions are advancing, Australia’s pace of adoption lags behind global leaders, raising concerns about its ability to meet ambitious net-zero targets and achieve zero-carbon mining operations.

A Global Push, Local Challenges

Globally, the mining industry is under scrutiny for its environmental impact, accounting for 8% of global emissions. Electrifying underground operations not only offers a significant opportunity for emissions reduction and improving working conditions but also presents potential economic benefits. Fully electrified underground mines eliminate exhaust fumes, reduce emissions, and decrease noise pollution, thereby reducing operational costs and enhancing the industry’s sustainability.

However, despite the apparent benefits, Australia must catch up in adopting underground mining equipment electrification. The country has only 16 operational electric mining vehicles, compared to 101 in Canada and 82 in China.

Industry experts attribute the slow progress to several factors. Australia’s mines predominantly use deep declines rather than shaft systems, complicating electrification efforts. Limited policy incentives and the high capital costs of deploying renewable energy in mining operations discourage investment.

“[Australia’s] mining landscape presents unique challenges,” says Ratna-Kanth Dittakavi, ABB’s global eMine sales manager. “Battery electric vehicles are becoming more powerful, and trolley systems are increasingly viable, but mines need reliable access to renewable energy to realise the full benefits of underground mine electrification.”

Technology and Partnerships Drive Progress

Despite the obstacles, advancements in underground mining electrification technology are gaining momentum. ABB has collaborated with Australian miners to adapt electrification solutions for local conditions, while Caterpillar’s Early Learner Program is testing battery-electric trucks in natural mining environments.

One notable initiative is Caterpillar’s partnership with Newmont, which plans to deploy 26 battery-electric autonomous vehicles at the Tanami mine in the Northern Territory by 2027. ABB has also conducted proof-of-concept studies to assess the feasibility of fully electric operations.

“Strong collaborations will bring innovative, reliable, and sustainable solutions,” says Dittakavi. He highlights the importance of partnerships in addressing challenges such as energy management, integrating new technologies, and training workers to operate zero-carbon mining equipment.

A Shift in Strategy

The dissolution of the Electric Mine Consortium (EMC) earlier this year signalled a change in the approach to decarbonisation in mining. The EMC played a vital role in uniting the industry and developing roadmaps, but its former director, Graeme Stanway, believes more minor, more focused collaborations are now driving progress. The EMC faced challenges such as [specific challenges], which led to its dissolution. However, these challenges have paved the way for more focused collaborations that are now driving progress.

“Compared with when we started, operators now have their roadmaps, and the ecosystem of engineers and consultants has been established,” Stanway says. “The challenge now is getting the adoption flywheel going.”

Time to Lead in Zero-Carbon Mining

With global demand for critical minerals such as copper and nickel expected to triple by 2050, Australia must act swiftly to remain competitive and meet its decarbonisation in mining goals.

“There’s reason to be positive,” says Dittakavi. “Australia has taken a front step in exploring and pushing for innovative solutions.”

However, Marc Cameron, senior vice-president at Caterpillar, underscores the need for tailored solutions. “Every operation is on its own unique energy transition journey and will face unique challenges and opportunities.”

With strategic investments in renewable energy for mining, partnerships with equipment manufacturers, and government support, Australia has the potential to lead the charge in underground mine electrification and redefine sustainable mining practices globally.

Share your thoughts: As industry professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders in the mining and energy sectors, your insights and actions are crucial in shaping the future of mining. Can Australia set the pace for zero-carbon mining and lead the electrification of underground operations? What role do you see yourself playing in this transition?

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