| Insights, On Land.
To achieve global net-zero goals, we must build the infrastructure necessary for the transition to clean energy, which includes implementing clean energy technologies in mining operations worldwide. This is essential because the production of wind turbines, solar panels, and battery storage relies heavily on raw materials such as lithium, nickel, cobalt, and copper, as well as traditionally mined resources like aluminum.
Forecasts indicate that global mining growth will lead to a more than one-third increase in operational power usage over the next decade. According to an IEA report, “Mining capacity for critical minerals needs to expand swiftly to stay on track with net-zero goals. While current investment projections suggest significant improvements, they will still fall short of the requirements outlined in the global Net Zero Emissions (NZE) scenario for 2030. The most substantial shortfall is for lithium, where anticipated expansions will only meet two-thirds of the 2030 demand. Given the long and uncertain lead times for new mines, an investment of approximately USD 360-450 billion is needed, primarily within the next three years, to close this gap.”
As the demand for raw materials to support clean energy technologies rises, mining operations are increasingly adopting cleaner on-site power generation solutions.
Available Today
Mining operations can take significant strides toward decarbonization today by integrating blended hydrogen engines into their power generation systems. With our successful 2023 tests demonstrating a market-leading 30% hydrogen blend in gas engines, mining companies can leverage this technology to reduce emissions while maintaining operational efficiency.
Our medium-speed engines can be utilized on-site in various configurations, whether grid-connected or in island mode, providing flexible power solutions tailored to the specific needs of the operation. In grid-connected mode, these engines can help stabilize power supply and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and while in island mode, they can ensure uninterrupted energy for remote mining sites, where traditional grid access may be limited. By adopting blended hydrogen technology, mining operations can balance renewable energy sources with traditional fuels, resulting in a cleaner energy mix and a marked decrease in greenhouse gas emissions.
Hybrid Renewable Microgrids for Mining Operations
Langley Holdings’ Power Solutions Division has developed a hybrid microgrid solution tailored for remote mining operations, leveraging the expertise of Bergen Engines along with its sister companies, Marelli Motori and Piller Power Systems. The Power of 10 solution features 10 MW hydrogen-ready Bergen gensets, equipped with 10MW Marelli Motori alternators and Piller’s Integrated Power Conditioning and Switching Technology (IPCS). The IPCS module is designed for frequency stabilization and voltage support, ensuring seamless integration of power generation units and renewable energy sources.
This comprehensive system provides the essential components to optimize renewable energy use within a hybrid microgrid. Bergen Engines has experience with these systems, such as in the Iron Bridge Magnetite Project (IBMP), where we supplied 15 x B36:45V20 gas gensets for remote mining operation of 67% Fe magnetite. This project produces 22MTPA and combines our 170MW of electrical output with 150MW of solar photovoltaic energy alongside a complete battery storage system, showcasing how hybrid microgrids can effectively combine traditional and renewable energy sources to deliver reliable power to remote mining sites.
Conclusion
As the mining industry navigates this critical transition, the integration of advanced technologies and sustainable practices will play a vital role in meeting future demands. By investing in cleaner energy solutions and enhancing operational efficiency, mining operations can significantly reduce their carbon footprint while supporting the growing need for essential materials in renewable energy production. With continued collaboration and innovation, we can pave the way for a more sustainable mining sector that aligns with global net-zero targets, ensuring a cleaner and more resilient energy future for generations to come.
