A State of Play survey of 450+ mining executives shows that mine electrification is viewed as one of the most pressing transformation imperatives for the industry.
While facilitating precision automation and the digitization of mine operations, electrification improves environmental and health outcomes. About 89% of the survey respondents, therefore, think mine sites will electrify within the next 20 years, and over 60% expect the next generation of mines to be all-electric.
Though health and environmental payoffs are obvious, economic considerations complete the trifecta of benefits from electrification. An overwhelming 91% think electrification will spur new business models, while more than half (53%) would electrify for cost reasons.
However, technological uncertainty is a significant barrier, particularly, which technology to invest in. The survey found that 87% of respondents expect solar to become the most widely used energy source in the industry in the next 15 years, followed by gas, wind, and diesel.
Another stumbling block is the heightened perception of risk from electrification, perhaps misplaced, but a “knowledge gap” to be confronted nevertheless. About 63% of respondents felt that risk aversion was holding back the implementation of electrification.
The broadly positive consensus on electrification is visible. The report emphasizes also the “size of the prize” from electrification: A 7-15% reduction in OPEX, 100% reduction in Scope 1 & 2 emissions, and the removal of diesel particulates.
1.2 million Australian workers are exposed annually to the 40+ toxic pollutants in diesel exhausts, the report said.
State of Play co-founder and chairman Graeme Stanway told Australian Mining that electric equipment would allow for a shift to a clean future for mining where machinery is safe, automated, and battery-powered.
“This would effectively cut out two of the biggest issues in mining: carbon impact and particulate exposure and result in zero carbon emission mines.”
References: Australian Mining ;
State of Play – Electrification Report 2021
Image Source: ABB