The Australian mining industry is in a constant search for autonomous renewable energy. A widespread trend that explores possible solutions for powering off-grid operations at the country’s major mines.
Possible energy solutions
In Australia’s vast mining territories, operators are turning to energy self-sufficiency. Although on-site energy solutions are not new, their adoption has gained considerable momentum in recent years. Among the companies, Rio Tinto, BHP, Fortescue Metals and others have opted to disconnect from the traditional power grid and look for sustainable alternatives.
[post_relacionado]More than 100 mines in the country are equipped with independent power supply. This trend reflects a broader movement in the industry toward energy self-sufficiency; out of a sample of 3,000 mines worldwide, nearly half (1,250) are considered off-grid.
The need for Australian stand-alone renewable energy
In Australia, this transition is partly driven by necessity. In vast areas of Western Australia (WA), the Northern Territory, the South Australian outback, western New South Wales and parts of Queensland, mining sites are increasingly remote from the conventional power grid, forcing miners to seek alternative solutions.
In addition, growing demand for “green minerals,” such as rare earths, lithium, cobalt and nickel, has driven mining activity and expansions. Another factor is the increase in fossil fuel fossil fuel prices, which miners have that miners have faced in recent years.
Finally, and especially for the larger mines, the pressure to reduce operational carbon emissions is a key driver. Many miners have their own commitments in this regard, but the Australian Government has also legislated greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction targets and implemented the national GHG and energy reporting scheme.
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Source: Minning Technology
Photo: Australian Renewable Energy Agency