Event Report - Energy and Mines Australia Summit 2023

EVENT OVERVIEW ATTENDEES FEEDBACK SESSION REPORTS

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT TITLE SPONSOR

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THOUGHT LEADER SPONSOR

LEAD SPONSORS

BREAKFAST BRIEFING SPONSORS

DINNER SPONSOR

LUNCH SPONSORS

LANYARD SPONSOR

SESSION LEADERS

BAR SPONSOR

NETWORKING DRINKS PARTNER

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EXHIBITORS

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EVENT SUPPORTERS AND PARTNERS

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CONTENT ENERGY AND MINES AUSTRALIA SUMMIT 2023

04

EVENT OVERVIEW BY NUMBERS

05

WHY MINES ATTEND THE EVENT

06

ATTENDEE FEEDBACK

08

SESSION REPORTS

10

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PAGE 3

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT

ENERGY AND MINES AUSTRALIA SUMMIT 2023 The 2023 Energy and Mines

The exhibition was sold-out

renewables integration, ESG,

Australia Summit brought

and our largest to date. The full

carbon management, and net zero

together over 600 mining, energy

decarbonisation supply chain

roadmaps.

and decarbonisation experts

was represented; from OEMs,

over two days, 30 sessions, two

developers, through to software,

The new event venue, the Optus

drinks receptions, a gala dinner,

EV leasing and recruitment.

Stadium, provided a spectacular

a packed exhibition and a great

environment for networking,

industry buzz. As the mining

The conference sessions took

meeting and branding. The award-

industry shifts to the realities of

place over two streams and

winning location was a hit with

decarbonisation the event provided

included mine CEO strategy

attendees. Conference sessions

advice, expertise, benchmarks and

presentations and detailed

took place in the Riverview

networking to help the industry

exploration of energy storage

rooms featuring large windows

meet its 2030 amd 2050 goals.

technologies, decarbonisation,

overlooking the city landscape.

E-mobility,electrification,

Meetings took place in hospitality

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AUSTRALIA SUMMIT

As well as the streamed conference agenda the Summit included numerous networking opportunities with an open bar, drinks functions, coffee breaks with baristas, and breakfast briefing sessions.

The GHD sponsored Mines and VIPs gala dinner provided a unique, fun and enjoyable networking event in which attendees relaxed, networked and created wind turbines!

EVENT OVERVIEW BY NUMBERS

615 ATTENDEES

106 SPEAKERS

40 SPONSORS & EXHIBITORS

UP 29% on

UP 25% on

UP 25% on

2022 SUMMIT

2022 SUMMIT

2022 SUMMIT

ORIGIN OF ATTENDEES GREATER PERTH: 40% WESTERN AUSTRALIA: 16% (EXCL PERTH)

REST OF AUSTRALIA: 30% REST OF WORLD: 14%

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AUSTRALIA SUMMIT

MINING COMPANIES INCLUDED

WHY MINES ATTEND THE EVENT Learning about latest in decarbonisation space, especially around long duration storage and hybrid power generation

Understanding of where peers are at in electrifying their mines and decarbonising their power supply, and latest precedents set to be able to refer to.

Connect with other companies and suppliers to increase our knowledge in the decarbonisation world which helps us further developing an energy strategy in the transition towards net zero.

Our project is focusing on electrification of mining so looking for ratification of what we are planning

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PAGE 6

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT

WE SURVEY OUR MINING ATTENDEES AS TO WHAT THEY HOPE TO GET OUT OF THE CONFERENCE. HERE IS A SAMPLE OF THEIR RESPONSES: To learn about emerging technologies and understand how to head towards zero carbon emissions

Hear tactics and strategies of other miners in managing electricity market headwinds.

Understand the availability and cost of various decarbonization technologies and services.

More information on mining fleet decarbonisation, both UG and OP technology.

Advancement of LDES Connect with the OEMs and consultants who can help with our mining decarb journey and selection of alternate transport methods

Technology advances in mine electrification and remote renewable generation.

More information on decarbonisation and renewable energy solutions for mid scale mines

Greater understanding of the WA renewables landscape as well as technologies research to reduce Scope 1 emissions

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AUSTRALIA SUMMIT

ATTENDEE FEEDBACK HERE IS JUST A SAMPLE OF THE 2023 POST-EVENT COMMENTS

The Summit was terrific. It was broad in its coverage of clean energy transformation options, and had a good balance of supplier and subject matter expert presentations.

Incredibly well organised at E&M as always, great attendance from miners, punctual sessions with good time after for questions, friendly staff, good communication, delicious food & snacks & coffee.

Broad range of topics, the exhibitors were great as could find a specific contact to seek information for feasibility studies

Great panels and talks and excellent networking at trade displays. Venue worked well too - lots of space.

Right speakers addressing the right topics. Information-rich.

Great content, and event is focused enough that everyone who attends is meaningful/relevant to each other.

Great event and good for networking and understanding the latest developments

Wonderful diverse agenda and presentations

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AUSTRALIA SUMMIT

Join us

AT ENERGY AND MINES 2024, MAY 7-8 OPTUS STADIUM, PERTH WA

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PAGE 9

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT

SESSION REPORTS KEYNOTE: FORTESCUE FUTURE INDUSTRIES: ELIMINATING FOSSIL FUELS BY 2030

AS AUSTRALIA TAKES THE GLOBAL LEAD IN MINING DECARBONISATION, INDUSTRY LEADERS AND PROFESSIONALS OFFER THEIR VIEWS ON THE DECARBONISATION TRANSITION world’s largest fully green networks.

decarbonisation is good for the

Once established, FFI will transition

environment, it also makes good

mining operations to use green

business sense. By eliminating

energy, replacing diesel-powered

fossil fuel use, Fortescue reduces

equipment with battery-electric and

regulatory and price volatility risks

fuel cell-electric alternatives.

while saving significant costs on oil and gas purchases and carbon

On rail transportation, FFI’s Infinity

credits.

Train will capture the energy of Christiaan Heyning, Director of

braking from a fully loaded ore

In closing, Heyning threw a

Decarbonisation, Fortescue Future

train heading downhill, storing it

challenge to the room:

Industries

in a big battery on the train itself.

That would be just enough power to

“So, let me end with a small

Christiaan Heyning, Director of

get the empty train back uphill. In

provocation, right? We are racing

Decarbonisation at Fortescue

essence, the train is a zero, external

towards net zero - we will be net

Future Industries (FFI), a subsidiary

energy closed-loop system.

zero - real zero- as you say no

of iron ore mining giant Fortescue

more fossil fuels by 2030. Join the

Metals Group, discussed the

race and if you can beat us, next

company’s commitment and plans

year, you will be standing here

to eliminate fossil fuel emissions by

and telling why you are ahead of

2030.

Emphasizing the urgency of the 2030 goal, Heyning observed that the 1.5-degree temperature threshold is already inevitable, making it crucial to act within this

WE ARE RACING TOWARDS NET ZERO WE WILL BE NET ZERO - REAL ZERO- AS YOU SAY NO MORE FOSSIL FUELS BY 2030.

Fortescue.”

KEYNOTE: BELLEVUE GOLD: DEVELOPING A ROADMAP TO NET ZERO GOLD OPERATIONS

decade.

FFI also aims to transform the FFI focuses on green energy

group’s shipping operations by

production, green technology

converting vessels to run on green

development, and decarbonisation

ammonia, produced from green

Darren Stralow, Managing Director

services.

hydrogen. In Heyning’s words,

and CEO, Bellevue Gold

Fortescue’s eight VLOC ore ships In its approach to decarbonisation,

generate Scope 1 emissions that

In this keynote presentation,

FFI first plans to build a 2 to

are his “biggest problem” to

Darren Stralow, Managing Director

3-gigawatt green power system

decarbonise before 2030.

and CEO of Bellevue Gold, discussed the company’s plan to

in the Pilbara, creating one of the According to Heyning, while

develop a roadmap to achieve

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PAGE 10

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT

net zero gold production by 2026.

Bellevue Gold is a mining company building Australia’s next major gold mine in Western Australia’s northern Goldfields, just north of Leinster. The mine is forecasted to produce 200,000 ounces of gold per annum at a relatively low cost of

IT’S GOING TO SET A NEW BENCHMARK FOR THE SECTOR

$1,000 to $1,100 per ounce.

Bellevue also intends to use

The company’s focus on

shifted crushing as strategies

environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues is a core part of its vision and purpose.

It has a strong relationship with native title holders, the Tjiwarl, and has implemented sustainability metrics, including a commitment to diversity with over 40% female participation within the company.

Bellevue Gold’s plan to achieve net zero involves a hierarchy of control for carbon mitigation, designated by the acronym AERO (Avoid,

ventilation-on-demand and timeto reduce energy consumption.

equipment and vehicles to decrease diesel emissions.

The company aims to offset any remaining emissions as a last resort, but is confident about attracting high-quality carbon offset partners locally.

Furthermore, Bellevue Gold

The company is investing in

allowing it to market its ‘green’ gold

create a differentiated product, bars with tier one ESG credentials to niche customers willing to pay a

to power its operations.

premium.

“We have signed a PPA With Zenith

The junior gold miner also

Energy to build an 80% renewable energy power station,” says Stralow. “It’s really the backbone of this plan.”

Engineer, JUWI

electrification options for mining

believes its net zero approach will

comprising an 88 MW hybrid plant

Thomas Littlechild, Hybrid

Additionally, it is exploring

Eliminate, Reduce, Offset).

renewable energy infrastructure

KEYNOTE: FUTUREPROOFING MINING’S TRANSITION TO DECARBONISED ENERGY

anticipates other tangible benefits such as increased employee attraction and retention, decreased costs, and increased investor appetite.

Muhammad Wasiq Ghani, Portfolio Consulting Professional, Siemens JUWI is an international renewable energy developer and EPC contractor with vast experience in the Australian mining industry.

The company focuses on providing reliable and cost-effective hybrid energy solutions for off-grid remote mine sites, utilizing wind and solar to replace gas and diesel-based power generation.

Thomas Littlechild, a hybrid engineer with JUWI, emphasized the importance of decarbonising the mining industry, identifying machinery, haulage, and electricity generation as the major sources

“And it’s going to set a new

of carbon emissions in mining

benchmark for the sector.”

operations.

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PAGE 11

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE Currently, only 1% of electricity

charging at peak generation times,

control and its relevance to mines’

in WA mines comes from onsite

we’re agnostic to the solution,”

decarbonisation efforts.

renewables.

Thomas added.

A levelized cost of electricity graph

What about project sizing to

experience, has been providing

for an off-grid mine site in WA

prepare for fleet electrification,

electrification and automation

presented by Thomas showed that

whenever it happens?

solutions to the Australian mining

Siemens, with over 150 years of

it is possible to achieve over 80%

industry, ensuring reliable and

renewable energy fraction using

innovative energy solutions for this

a combination of solar, wind, and

critical sector.

storage technologies.

Clearly, the last 20% becomes prohibitively expensive with current technology.

However, according to Thomas: “The way we manage energy flows with demand side management and deferrable loads such as electric vehicle charging can increase the flexibility or solutions and push us closer to that 100% renewable energy fraction without the high price tag.”

Highlighting the need for a control system to manage diverse energy inputs efficiently, Thomas

THE MICROGRID CONTROL OFFERS VARIOUS FEATURES WHICH ARE AIMED TO ENSURE THAT KPI TARGETS SUCH AS RELIABLE ENERGY SUPPLY, REDUCTION OF ENERGY COST, LOWERING CARBON FOOTPRINT ETC ARE ALL MET EFFICIENTLY MAKING THE GRID NETWORK RESILIENT, EFFICIENT, AND SUSTAINABLE

believes the JUWI hybrid IQ system,

While renewable sources like solar and wind offer lower operational costs and reduced carbon footprint, they present challenges in managing intermittency, efficient storage utilization, and centralized management of distributed energy assets.

To address these challenges, Siemens offers a microgrid control system, which coordinates with various energy assets, including generation, renewable and nonrenewable, energy storage, external grid connections, and distributed loads.

The microgrid control features

developed with Siemens, is a

Thomas clarified that with the

a flexible platform supporting

solution to orchestrate intermittent

larger penetration renewable

versatile applications, multiple

renewables, storage systems, and

systems (such as 80%), there is

interfaces for easy integration,

deferrable loads.

currently a significant amount of

a modular design for future

curtailment - energy that is not

upgrades, robustness, and

On a question from the floor

used because of insufficiency of

redundancy. It also incorporates

regarding JUWI’s approach towards

load. This curtailment would likely

embedded cybersecurity features

emerging technological solutions

be used to electrify mining fleets in

to protect data in a secure

for decarbonisation: “We can get

the future.

environment. Standardized function

80% of the way there on your

blocks save time and reduce risks,

electricity demand. And then when

Mines planning fleet electrification

while custom functions cater to

those solutions come along, we

should therefore consider this: “Do

complex facility requirements,

can have that microgrid controller

we actually front load and put in

ensuring compliance and flexibility

already there, which is modular and

the larger system now so that it’s

for future enhancements.

can incorporate those additional

there and available and ready for

solutions later.”

when those loads increase?”

“The microgrid control offers

In the second part of the Keynote,

various features which are aimed

“So whether that’s another form of

Muhammad Wasiq Ghani, Portfolio

to ensure that KPI targets such as

energy storage that isn’t a chemical

Consulting Professional, Siemens,

reliable energy supply, reduction

battery, or if it’s electric vehicle

discussed the company’s microgrid

of energy cost, lowering carbon

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PAGE 12

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE footprint etc are all met efficiently

According to Darren Stralow,

making the grid network resilient,

many new companies and

efficient, and sustainable,” said

projects are focusing on ESG and

Wasiq.

Furthermore, to realize the true

decarbonisation as core aspects Jessica Jones, Director ESG,

of their business, because it

Resource Capital Funds

aligns with the preferences of

potential of renewable assets,

stakeholders and attracts the next

Siemens has the expertise

generation of workers. As a junior

and resources available within

development company, Bellevue

Australia to deliver solutions as per

Gold had the leeway to do things

customers’ requirements. These

differently (“by us sort of sticking

span the complete value chain

Michelle Ash, Vice President of

our neck out a little bit”), and could

from consultation and guidance to

Growth, BHP

influence other companies to

project realization, including budget

decarbonise.

estimations, design, development,

The panel, chaired by Jo Garland,

testing, commissioning and

Partner, HFW Australia, comprised

How is decarbonisation changing

continuous improvement support.

participants from finance, junior

mining on strategic and

miners and larger resource

operational levels?

companies. The discussions were

Reducing the carbon footprint

structured around a well-thought

is becoming a crucial aspect of

out agenda, and benefited from the

mining companies’ strategies as

views expressed by smaller miners

there is increasing pressure from

embarking on the pathway to net

various stakeholders, including

zero.

governments, shareholders,

KEYNOTE PANEL: TOWARDS NET ZERO MINING

investors, and employees. This is Chair: Jo Garland, Partner,

How are miners addressing the

HFW Australia

dual challenge of trying to grow

changing mining at all levels.

their assets and portfolios while

On questions that miners face

reducing their carbon footprints?

on their emissions, Luke Graham

On the question of how mines can

commented: “It gets boards to

decarbonise their operations while

shape strategy around answering

growing their business, participants

those questions and mapping

Darren Stralow, Managing Director

felt the key lay in rethinking the

against that. It then just drives

and CEO, Bellevue Gold

way mining is conducted. This

down into actions through

could involve redesigning mining

operational plans.”

operations to reduce waste

Sarah Thomas, Environment

movement, adopting more precise

“So, it is an everyday agenda. It’s

and efficient mining and sorting

high on the agenda. It’s part of your

techniques, and out-of-the-box

sustainability initiatives. And it’s,

thinking.

and it’s not going anywhere, and it’s

Manager, De Grey Mining

not a set-and-forget strategy.”

“Do we have to do everything

Sarah Thomas remarked that

24/7? Can we rethink when we

sustainable lending was emerging

do things and how we do things?”

as a key driver for companies that

asked Michelle Ash, who also

adopt decarbonisation efforts,

suggested the use of alternative

leading to broader value and

Luke Graham, Chief Executive

energy storage systems and

benefits, including community

Officer & Managing Director,

advanced technologies like AI and

engagement and improved

Strandline Resources

communication systems to help

corporate social responsibility. The

achieve the twin objectives.

focus on sustainability could also

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PAGE 13

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE help attract diverse talent to the

How are investors and customers

implementing renewable energy

industry.

responding to these commitments

solutions and adopting new

and plans?

technologies, can attract investors

This was echoed by Michelle Ash.

The discussion focused on the

and downstream customers,

“We’ve sort of become less and less

perspectives of private equity

leading to business growth

relevant to young people.”

investors and customer response

and opportunities for valuable

to decarbonisation strategies in

partnerships.

the mining industry. Investors

I GUESS EVERY MINER IS A SLAVE TO THE ORE BODY, AND THE ORE BODY IS GOING TO DICTATE YOUR MINING METHOD

are increasingly considering

What are some of the anticipated

decarbonisation as a crucial factor

roadblocks in transitioning to net

when evaluating investment

zero mining?

opportunities. Climate change

The discussion revolved around the

reviews are becoming a standard

challenges and obstacles faced by

part of due diligence, even if

the mining industry in its efforts to

specific decarbonisation plans are

achieve net zero emissions.

not yet fully developed.

Participants highlighted that each From the perspective of investors

company, commodity, and location

How are mines supporting the

and customers, having a well-

would confront unique roadblocks

business case for significant

defined decarbonisation strategy

in their decarbonisation journey.

investments in renewable energy,

and transparent reporting on

Several key problem areas emerged

electrification, hydrogen, etc?

progress is becoming a critical

spanning infrastructure (such as

Transitioning to renewable energy

criterion. Institutional investors

limited land resources); biodiversity

significantly increases capital

and high net worth individuals

preservation; availability of skilled

expenditure, and this could be

show strong interest in responsible

manpower; regulatory compliance,

a serious problem in the case of

investments that prioritize

and retrofitting for decarbonisation

projects with a short mine life.

decarbonisation initiatives.

in mature mine sites.

the long-term benefits and total

However, many smaller, or early-

“Also, we see challenges in

cost of ownership were factors

stage mining companies may not

developing countries where the

that mines must consider in the

have firmed up decarbonisation

technology hasn’t been trialed and

Capex decision. Again, integrating

plans. “We don’t really see much

it’s harder to roll out something

different technologies, such as

of a strategy at that stage,” said

new and different,” remarked

electrification and automation,

Jessica Jones. “But if we do,

Jessica Jones. “And it’s just much

could yield additional advantages

generally, we get quite excited

easier to do that in the OECD

such as more safety for miners at

about it and want to understand

countries, I guess.”

the coalface.

what is behind the assumptions

However, participants agreed that

and digging into the idea and as

How are decarbonisation goals

The participants emphasized the

you say, looking at not only the

being integrated into business

need to present the case for the

opportunity, which we get excited

planning?

investments in a comprehensive

about, but also what are the risks.”

The discussion centered on

and compelling manner to

Similarly, downstream customers

the importance of strategic

gain support from boards and

in the mining industry, when

planning and practical actions

stakeholders, especially those

considering offtake agreements,

for decarbonisation in the mining

that may be less familiar with

look at the emissions profile of

industry.

technology-related risks.

the mining companies as part

Said Michelle Ash “You have to get

of their own Scope 3 emission

Participants emphasized the

people to understand that there is

considerations. Luke Graham made

significance of reporting and

risk in doing things the same way

the point that responsible and

monitoring emissions profiles

as we’ve always done them.”

future-facing practices, such as

(Scope 1, Scope 2, and potentially

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PAGE 14

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE Scope 3) in their annual sustainability reports.

“The strategy gets it, clearly, and

NEWCREST MINING LIMITED: MANAGING THE FLEET TRANSITION

The trial has demonstrated impressive results, including a 22% reduction in cycle times and 40-50%

then we’ve defined the various

faster travel speeds compared to

business imperatives at the

diesel trucks. The electric trucks

operational level to deliver on that,”

are contributing to significant

said Luke Graham. “And then the

emissions reductions, aligning with

key thing is your report on it.”

Siobhan Cribb, Program Director

Newcrest’s sustainability goals.

Michelle Ash said that net zero

Net Zero Emissions, Newcrest

Another motivating factor at

strategies would have to be

Mining Limited

Brucejack for transition to electric

translated into a decarbonisation

trucks: All the diesel for fossil-

roadmap that defined practical,

Siobhan Cribb, Program Director

diesel driven trucks has to be

more tangible actions.

Net Zero Emissions at Newcrest

hauled to the mine over a glacier.

Mining, discussed the company’s How can mines plan and design

approach to fleet decarbonisation

around technologies that are not

in her presentation “Managing

yet available?

the Fleet Transition.” Newcrest is

In this part of the discussion,

Australia’s largest gold producer

participants acknowledged that

and is focused on reducing

it was essential to identify and

emissions across its operations.

implement technology-driven

Siobhan’s team is responsible

solutions to reduce carbon

for Newcrest’s decarbonisation

emissions.

strategy, including fleet electrification.

However, they also recognized that

NEWCREST IS AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST GOLD PRODUCER AND IS FOCUSED ON REDUCING EMISSIONS ACROSS ITS OPERATIONS

the complexity of mining operations

The company categorizes

and physical site constraints could

decarbonisation technologies

The risky process was reason

limit the available technology

into three horizons: Horizon One

enough for the team to switch at

options for decarbonisation.

involves simple technology swaps,

the earliest to electric trucks and

Said Darren Stralow: “I guess every

such as replacing diesel vehicles

reduce diesel transportation over

miner is a slave to the ore body,

with electric ones, which have

the icy road.

and the ore body is going to dictate

shown promising results in trials

your mining method - the gold was

for auxiliary fleet vehicles. Horizon

“The Brucejack team, what they’re

put there 4.2 billion years ago, and

Two explores more complex

doing now is running the full fleet,

as good as you are, you can’t affect

system changes, like trolley

because the eighth truck only got

that.”

systems for hauling, or alternative

onsite in March,” says Siobhan.

fuels for mobile fleet vehicles.

“They’re now running the trial

“So, what we just need to do is

Finally, Horizon Three represents

again, and they’re going to validate

really start to try and think about

fundamental system changes,

these numbers and rerun the

what those technologies are, and

focusing on low-energy processing

business case.”

then try and drive that back into

and renewable power generation.

the decision-making process.”

Newcrest has successfully deployed

“But it’s looking really, really quite

a fleet of Sandvik Z50 electric

good.”

trucks at its Brucejack gold mine in Canada. The trial started in October 2022 with one truck, which had to be warmed under a tent before it could start operating in the freezing conditions.

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PAGE 15

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE PANEL: KEY DEVELOPMENTS FOR ZERO-EMISSIONS FLEETS

Participants acknowledged the

Michael Lewis discussed

complexity of the challenge,

innovations in three areas

agreeing that a holistic approach

of sustainable fuels, battery-

is necessary, considering various

powered haul trucks with dynamic

technologies and solutions. The

charging, and scaling up hydrogen

conversation emphasized that there

applications, emphasizing the need

isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer.

to maximize engine lifespan and understand total cost of ownership

Chair: Siobhan Cribb, Program

Given the importance of system-

Director Net Zero Emissions,

level thinking and energy

(TCO) for these technologies.

Newcrest Mining Limited

management, a combination

Shane Clark suggested retrofitting

of technologies could lead to a

existing assets as a way to enable

comprehensive mining solution,

the transition to battery electric

according to Paul Murphy.

vehicles (BEVs). “To think that the OEM solution will kind of come

This view resonated with Michael

along and displace, you know,

Michael Lewis, Technical Director,

Lewis, who suggested that regional

the 5,500 rigid dump trucks in

Technology, Komatsu

variations and differing mine

operation in Australia, in the kind

requirements made it necessary

of timeframes that we’re seeing the

to work on multiple technologies

client’s requirements - off the shelf

simultaneously. He provided

– it’s pretty, pretty hard to see.”

examples of how hydrogen, battery trolleys, and renewable diesel could

According to Paul Murphy,

Shane Clark, General Manager -

be suitable in different contexts,

addressing the technology dilemma

Strategy & Growth, MACA

even within the same mine.

involves being power system

“I think having a look at the

agnostic. He suggested focusing on

overarching energy profile of

efficient electric drive systems as a

your mine, and basically picking

base and allowing adaptability for

the quick green wins and doing

future power systems as technology

it in order, because you know,

evolves. This approach ensures

each mine life is different, every

flexibility while capitalizing on the

application is different,” suggested

known benefits of electric drive

Shane Clark.

efficiency.

Julian Soles emphasized the need

What are the key takeaways from

for solutions that maintain or

recent pilot projects that you’ve

Paul Murphy, Executive General

improve production efficiency while

done with First Mode? And which

Manager, Future Industries Project,

being cost-effective compared to

mines? And what are the next steps

Liebherr

diesel. “You’re going to transition

for scaling up these technologies?

the whole energy system. So, you’ve

Julian Soles shared insights from

The panel delivered a thought-

got to look at the whole system

First Mode’s pilot trial involving

provoking discussion on the current

solution, and then you’ll arrive at

fuel cells and batteries in mining,

status of fleet decarbonisation. It

the best fit for the mine.”

highlighting the importance of

Julian Soles, CEO, First Mode

hands-on testing over theoretical

covered technology options, recent pilot projects, and OEMs’ readiness

What are the latest developments

for purchase demands from mines

in terms of technology readiness

as net zero timelines approach.

and commercialization for the

The trial revealed unexpected

different options? Could it

performance variations,

What is the response to miners

be electrification, hydrogen,

emphasizing the need for real-

who ask which technology?

sustainable fuels?

world experimentation.

considerations.

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PAGE 16

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE

YOU’RE GOING TO TRANSITION THE WHOLE ENERGY SYSTEM. SO, YOU’VE GOT TO LOOK AT THE WHOLE SYSTEM SOLUTION, AND THEN YOU’LL ARRIVE AT THE BEST FIT FOR THE MINE

“You find that some things performed way better than you expected them to do. And some of the things that you thought were going to perform just don’t, don’t perform as advertised,” said Soles.

“And the only way you learn that is by getting your hands on the hardware, testing it, putting it all together, and then going into the field.”

Challenges in system integration, operational coherence, and safety led to a focus on long-term viability and operational readiness for First Mode.

Michael Lewis focused on lessons from a battery truck pilot. He too stressed the significance of verifying technology against expectations, revealing that some partner specifications didn’t align with mining requirements.

What are the OEMs learning about the complexities and possible solutions for enabling infrastructure?

This part of the discussion focused on the transition towards new technologies and the need for

collaboration and practical action

where milestones, engineering

to create the infrastructure to

challenges, timeframes, and future

receive them.

risk sharing are set, allowing for upfront engineering investment and

Shane Clark emphasized that

collective problem-solving.

the shift from a one-size-fits-all

The other participants seconded

approach to individualized charging

the need for collaboration between

and energy solutions for each mine

mine owners and equipment

presented a challenge for mine

suppliers.

owners. “And I think that we kind of get decision paralysis to an extent

Julian Soles underscored the

on the mine owners’ side, because

importance of risk sharing,

it’s seen as such a big problem to

acknowledging that the first

solve that.”

solutions may not be perfect, but a collaborative learning journey

He called for more early adopters

is necessary to move the industry

to take the initial small steps to

forward faster.

inform and encourage the industry.

Paul Murphy discussed the

“Anglo American, for example -

Fortescue example, emphasizing

that’s the reason we were able to

the importance of collaborative

move quickly,” said Soles. “The

models in solving the challenges of

timelines, the reason for moving

decarbonisation. He suggested that

the way we did was that the market

collective efforts, complementing

just wasn’t moving at the pace that

each other’s strengths, would be

we wanted it to.”

more effective in addressing these complex issues.

For miners who are not currently

Michael Lewis shared insights about

working with OEMs on testing

the history of mining technologies

these technologies - do we think

like trolley systems and how

they’ll have a hard time procuring

lessons from the past can inform

trucks and equipment in line with

the current transition. “I think

net zero timelines?

that these are not insurmountable

Participants agreed that time was

challenges,” he said. “I think

of the essence in joint development

we need to come together as

and testing. And early adopters may

an industry, we need to come

secure an advantage by investing

together between the OEMs and the

in the technology and taking on the

operators, and just work through

risk.

these problems.”

“What I think that the imperative How is this transition challenging

is, it’s incumbent upon all parties

the traditional business model

here to commence and then I think

for OEMs? And what new contract

the deployment will somehow look

models are being considered?

after itself as the market levels a

In the context of the traditional

bit,” said Murphy.

OEM product development lifecycle, notable for its lack of

In a wake-up call, Lewis said the

agility in addressing the challenges

10,000 ultra-class trucks currently

posed by the transition, Murphy

in operation across the globe

recommended collaborative models

represented more than 10 years of

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PAGE 17

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE manufacturing capacity. Replacing

learning about it. And then you’ll

them cannot happen overnight. “I

end up making the best decision for

Oliver’s presentation evaluated

will say this, you know, there is a

the mine.”

the various haulage electrification

growing demand, the demand is

options of battery swapping, static

going to outstrip the capability of

“Because ultimately, we’ve got to

battery charging, a traditional

the OEMs,” he added.

make sure that we deliver tonnage,

trolley system, and dynamic

that’s the objective here.”

charging.

CASE STUDY: POWERING THE FUTURE OF MINING: REVOLUTIONIZING ELECTRIFICATION AND HAULAGE TECHNOLOGIES

The time lost by a haul truck in

Julian Soles held a similar view: “This is going to take years, and part of it is, you know, really goes to 2040 target 2030.”

So, team work would be key. “It

stopping to swap, as well the large size of batteries are arguments against battery swapping.

Moreover, a mine would have

doesn’t really matter who you are, if

to allocate precious real estate

you’re going to try the technology,

to battery swap stations, and in

you’ve got the risk appetite, we’d

underground operations, invest in

love to work with you.”

a larger number of batteries as the mine goes deeper underground.

What advice do OEMs have for

James Oliver, CEO, BluVein

miners trying to manage the fleet

Meanwhile, the stop-to-charge electrification option suffers from

transition and optimize plans

BluVein is a collaboration between

the challenges of safety, loss of

as these technologies become

Swedish cleantech company Evias

production because of stationary

available?

and Olitek, a well-known Australian

trucks lining up to charge, and

“You have to start this process

technology development and

larger batteries that have a

now,” emphasized Lewis. “Now’s

deployment company. BluVein

shorter working life. This option

the time to start planning, start

aims to provide dynamic power to

is also difficult to automate, a

collaborating, thinking about what

moving mixed-OEM haul fleets in

key bottleneck in the mine of the

you want to do, how you want to do

mining applications, an approach

future.

it, and, and working with partners,

that reduces battery needs, boosts

OEMs, and service providers

vehicle speeds, balances grid loads,

However, electrification via a

and, and others around how to

eliminates static fast charging,

traditional trolley system offers the

accomplish it.”

improves fleet availability, and eliminates diesel use.

Lewis referred to a discussion a few months ago with a mine operator

BluVein 1 offers an underground

on infrastructure preparation for

mining solution using the BluVein

electrification. It turned out that

Rail™ system and on-vehicle

the lead time on some of those

BluVein Hammer™ for simultaneous

components was over four years.

charging while moving. This

“And we have, you know, not just

technology eliminates battery

one or two of the major miners

swaps, supports smaller batteries,

asking for these infrastructure

and suits continuous heavy use.

pieces, but we have almost

BluVein XL extends this innovation

everyone in the room.”

to open-pit operations, replacing conventional trolley systems and

Julian Soles stressed the need for

aiding mines in transitioning to

planning and testing in advance.

decarbonised haulage practices.

“And so really, get piloting, get the

James Oliver serves as the

technology in your hands, learn

Managing Director of Olitek, and is

about it, get your operational folks

also the CEO of BluVein.

OLIVER’S PRESENTATION EVALUATED THE VARIOUS HAULAGE ELECTRIFICATION OPTIONS OF BATTERY SWAPPING, STATIC BATTERY CHARGING, A TRADITIONAL TROLLEY SYSTEM, AND DYNAMIC CHARGING.

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PAGE 18

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE advantages of keeping haul trucks

Innovation and Technology, Gold

in motion, reduced peak loading on

Fields Australia, there is more

grid, and the use of better batteries

to this challenge than meets the

that are also fewer in number.

eye. “Another issue is the gap

On the flip side, this system suffers from power, earthing, and safety challenges, and needs larger infrastructure and a well-

Rob Derries, Unit Manager: Innovation & Technology, Gold Fields Australia

in practical experience in the introduction of technologies. A lot of what we’re doing is based on simulations and theoretical

maintained terrain for the trucks to

assumptions, and there aren’t a

traverse.

lot of trials. That’s a major risk as a mining company, as we try and

Oliver describes dynamic charging

by BluVein as the next generation trolley system for mines’ next generation haulage applications.

For underground mining, BluVein

implement these technologies,” he John Mulcahy, Principal Advisor, Surface Mining and Technology, Rio Tinto

said.

Because of this lack of experience, the technical implications of

1 offers the attributes of higher

managing and recharging battery-

production, agnostic application,

electric trucks remain unclear,

better safety, and six times less

particularly as several speakers

batteries without the need to swap

explained that mines will need to

- all at a lower cost.

For open pit, BluVein XL offers all the same advantages with higher power capability of 8MW+.

PANEL: TRANSITIONING TO ALL-ELECTRIC MINING

Paul Linabury, Manager Electrification, Perenti Contract Mining Much remains to be done on the way to the all-electric mine, but mining companies and technology providers are positive about what’s to come. At a panel on this topic at the Energy and Mines Australia Summit 2023, speakers emphasized the need for careful planning,

Chair: Rod Thiele, Education and Training Manager, Future Batteries Industry Cooperative Research Centre (FBICRC)

training and cooperation in making this goal a reality.

Chaired by Robert Thiele, Education and Training manager at Future Battery Industries CRC, the panel gathered representatives from ABB, Gold Fields, Rio Tinto and Perenti Contract Mining to discuss the main

Ratna Kanth Dittakavi, Global Product Manager - Trolley Systems, ABB

challenges in managing mines’ transition to electrification.

Several speakers noted the issue of technology readiness, with few electrification technologies commercially available at the scale needed for the industry. But

temporarily operate a mixed diesel and electric fleet.

“We see it starting with the introduction of battery-electric fleets as the diesel fleet starts to retire. Over time, as you retire more of the diesel fleet, and the technology improves, you can start running longer distances. And ultimately, by the time we need to be at target, we would technically have enough battery-electric fleet to do the job,” noted John Mulcahy, Principal Advisor, Surface Mining Technology at Rio Tinto.

This transition will require collaboration from the entire mine staff, which will involve a mindset change, as well as new talent. Among the type of future hires mentioned by panelists are design-focused mining engineers, refrigeration technicians to handle the new cooling needs of battery and charging systems, and innovation experts.

for Rob Derries, Unit Manager

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PAGE 19

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE

WE SEE IT STARTING WITH THE INTRODUCTION OF BATTERY-ELECTRIC FLEETS AS THE DIESEL FLEET STARTS TO RETIRE As more and more battery-

Despite these challenges, miners

The process of transitioning

on the panel expressed their

to sustainable energy and

excitement about being a part

electrification aims to achieve the

of “the biggest change” the

target of deriving 80% of energy

industry has seen in generations,

from fossil-free sources by 2050.

and working together towards a

This shift is particularly relevant for

common goal.

the energy-intensive mining sector.

The challenges that the mining

HITACHI ENERGY: SUSTAINABLE ENERGY SOLUTIONS FOR AN ALL-ELECTRIC MINE

Additionally, the industry is

transition to a battery-electric mine,

able to talk to our power network, our fleet management system is going to have to be aware of the upcoming voltage requirements the energy demands, and all that’s going to happen on a grid power systems with an increased penetration of renewables with variations in supply,” added Mulcahy.

This transition and everything it involves will of course come at a cost that needs to be taken into consideration in planning. Ratna Kanth Dittakavu, Global Product Manager for Trolley Systems in ABB, recommended conducting thorough studies to define a clear roadmap and anticipate the mine’s increase in energy needs. “A very important part of the studies is not only to look at the energy requirements for the trial, but to get the final goal, compared to how much is installed now. Building this infrastructure for the future is high CAPEX, so it is important to understand what needs to be invested upfront now,” he said.

efficiency, considerations of

cybersecurity concerns.

will also become crucial. “When we

chargers are going to have to be

digitalization for operational

and the necessity to address

automation and interoperability

between our power systems. Our

energy solutions encompass

sustainability and ESG factors,

electric vehicles get introduced,

we will create this interdependency

sector faces in adopting sustainable

influenced by the volatility of Bernard Norton, Country

electricity and commodity prices,

Managing Director, Hitachi Energy

trade logistics, and geopolitical issues.

Hitachi Energy is a global technology leader committed to

In this scenario, according to

creating a sustainable energy

Norton, conceptualizing an all-

future. The company provides

electric mine would encompass all

innovative solutions and services

facets of energy generation and

across the utility, industry, and

consumption to develop a unified

infrastructure sectors, catering

and integrated solution to ensure a

to the entire value chain.

reliable and efficient energy supply.

Headquartered in Switzerland, with

The five key considerations when

a presence in over 140 countries,

planning for an all-electric mine

Hitachi Energy employs around

encompass the requirement for

40,000 individuals across 90

a dependable and stable power

countries and has a turnover of approximately $10 billion USD. In the presentation, Bernard Norton, the Country Managing Director of Hitachi Energy, emphasized the significance of sustainable energy solutions for allelectric mines.

Norton highlighted the ongoing global shift from fossil fuels to renewable resources, emphasizing

THE INDUSTRY IS INFLUENCED BY THE VOLATILITY OF ELECTRICITY AND COMMODITY PRICES, TRADE LOGISTICS, AND GEOPOLITICAL ISSUES

the importance of increased electrification and the integration

supply using technologies such

of sustainable energy sources to

as 5G networks, the integration

create a more environmentally

of renewable energy sources,

friendly energy mix.

flexibility in electrification systems,

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PAGE 20

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE and the importance of collaboration

“Hydrogen, typically in fuel cells,

among industry stakeholders.

from a Caterpillar perspective, may be an option to round out that last

Virtual synchronous machines from Hitachi Energy facilitate the integration of renewable energy into mining operations. This technology replicates the behaviour of conventional synchronous generators and contributes to stabilizing power systems while enabling the transition away from fossil-fueled generation.

INTEGRATING ENERGY DECARBONISATION AND ELECTRIFICATION

HYDROGEN, TYPICALLY IN FUEL CELLS, FROM A CATERPILLAR PERSPECTIVE, MAY BE AN OPTION TO ROUND OUT THAT LAST FEW PERCENT THAT EVERYONE’S BEEN TALKING ABOUT.

few percent that everyone’s been talking about.”

CASE STUDY: THE QUIET DECARBONISATION REVOLUTION: MAXIMISING EFFICIENCIES AT EXISTING OPERATIONS

and Nouveau Monde Graphite to develop these solutions.

He addressed key considerations

Manoli Yannaghas, Managing

when working towards

Director, Voltvision

decarbonising power at a mine,

Adrian Constable, Asia Pacific

including renewable energy

VoltVision specializes in digitizing

requirements, energy storage, and

high and medium voltage industrial

electric lines.

power networks, converting raw

Manager – Hybrid Energy Solutions,

power data into actionable insights

Caterpillar Electric Power

“It’s very complicated to

for mining companies using a

Division

decarbonise a mine,” said

distinctive “Plug and Play” data

Constable. “And that’s why

extraction gateway and advanced

Caterpillar is the world’s leading

Caterpillar is working heavily on

AI platform. These technologies

manufacturer of construction and

integrating both the renewable

enable automated analysis and

mining equipment, diesel and

energy solar power side as well as

visualization of power data in near

natural gas engines, industrial

electrification on the machinery

real-time.

gas turbines and diesel-electric

side.”

locomotives.

Manoli Yannaghas, the Managing Caterpillar’s hybrid energy

Director and Founder of Voltvision,

In his presentation, Adrian

solutions involve renewable

emphasized the value of collecting

Constable, Caterpillar’s Asia Pacific

energy integration, with Constable

and analyzing data to identify

Hybrid Energy Solutions Manager,

particularly emphasizing the role

opportunities for energy savings,

discussed the integration of energy

of battery energy storage and

emissions reductions, and asset

solutions, decarbonisation, and

inverters.

optimization.

fleet electrification.

His presentation also showcased

“I’ve got three words: data is

Constable described Caterpillar’s

various ‘what-if’ scenarios involving

power,” said Manoli. “So, what do I

transition towards electric

renewable energy integration

mean?”

machines, mentioning their

and energy storage, illustrating

diesel-electric fleet and a shift

the impact on traditional power

“Within the context of energy

towards fully electric solutions,

generation.

usage, the ability to collect and

including battery electric and grid-

understand the right data can

connected options. The company

Constable also referred briefly

deliver quick, low-cost efficiencies.”

is collaborating with mining

to hydrogen, which Caterpillar

Voltvision’s products, namely VV

companies like BHP, Rio Tinto,

has been blending for 35 years.

Asset, VV Power, and VV Net Zero,

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PAGE 21

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE PANEL: DECARBONISATION STRATEGIES FOR SMALL TO MID-CAP MINES

involve collecting and processing power data using hardware and cloud-based AI software. These solutions offer insights into power consumption, asset performance, and emissions data.

In a case study at Endeavour Mines in West Africa, Manoli revealed that this approach and Voltvision’s solutions led to significant savings and emissions reductions at the mine.

“We are an opex-only product, we don’t require capex,” said Manoli.

“Payback to Endeavor across those two lines, as you can see, was under a month.”

CLIMATE RESILIENT NET ZERO MINING

HIGH TEMPERATURES AND REDUCED ENERGY OUTPUT FROM RENEWABLE SOURCES COULD LEAD TO POWER SYSTEM IMBALANCES AND POTENTIAL DISRUPTIONS study to demonstrate the impact of extreme heat on a renewable energy system.

Chair: Wayne Peel, Regional Director, Mining, Australia, Stantec

Tom Blackwell, Project Director, Leo Lithium

The case study involved a fictitious mining operation located in the Pilbara region, focusing on the challenges posed by climate change, including cyclones, extreme heat, and their impact

Jim Simpson, Managing Director & CEO, Peel Mining

on renewable energy generation.

Steele showed how solar and wind Amy Steel, WA Leader, Decarbonisation and Climate risk, ENGIE Impact ENGIE Impact provides sustainability solutions and services globally to businesses, governments, and municipalities.

With headquarters in New York City and 21 global offices, ENGIE Impact serves a diverse portfolio of 1,000 clients, including a quarter of Fortune 500 Companies, operating across over a million sites.

As part of the ENGIE Group, a leader in the zero-carbon transition, ENGIE Impact contributes to promoting eco-friendly practices.

Amy Steele, WA Leader at Engie Impact, highlighted the intersection between climate risk and decarbonisation, using a case

power output de-rates due to extreme heat.

Furthermore, she warned that a combination of high temperatures and reduced energy output from

Andrew Strickland, Executive Business Development, Blackstone Minerals

renewable sources could lead to power system imbalances and potential disruptions.

Steele stressed that mines need to develop strategies to mitigate these risks, including diversification

Nicole Duncan, Managing Director, NickelSearch

through geographic and technological approaches.

Miners may also have to cut production to ensure a 50% load on the VRE, resize higher their power systems, and even incorporate flexible generation sources, such as green hydrogen and ammonia.

Stuart Ellison, General Manager, Project Development, Saturn Metals It is a tricky balancing act for junior mining companies as they

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PAGE 22

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE strive to expand their holdings

How do mining CFOs and investors

carbon footprint from day one and

and portfolios, all the while

view the carbon footprint vs.

conducting a life cycle assessment

endeavouring to diminish their

business growth challenge?

to identify areas for improvement.

environmental impact. These

Strickland emphasized the

He recommended a pre-feasibility

companies are additionally

significance of accessing capital

study for a fully electrified

handicapped because they lack

and financing for junior companies

mine and the importance of

the financial resources and in-

engaged in low-carbon initiatives.

partnerships with OEMs, engineers,

house capabilities of the large

He also said it was important

and consultants to incorporate

mining corporations. Some small

to find financing partners with

electrification effectively.

and mid-cap miners have projects

lower costs of capital and provide

in foreign countries and must

incentives for projects with lower

Blackwell said his company was

contend with different political

carbon footprints.

following a staged project approach

and environmental demands. This

and leveraging its larger resource

panel examined how smaller mining

base to manage risk along the

enterprises are navigating the

journey.

process of decarbonisation.

What are the biggest challenges facing smaller miners committing to net zero goals?

Jim Simpson acknowledged the challenges in the current economic landscape, particularly in the

WE’VE DECIDED TO BUILD OUR PROJECT IN A COUPLE OF STAGES WITH THE VIEW THAT WE CAN DE-RISK ON THAT JOURNEY

base metal sector. He highlighted

“We’ve decided to build our project in a couple of stages with the view that we can de-risk on that journey,” he noted. “We don’t have the detail around how we’re going to decarbonise at this point - we’ve got kind of a larger running map.”

He emphasized the importance

the importance of government

of partnerships, particularly

support for grid power integration

According to Nicole Duncan,

with power providers, to achieve

and the gradual development of a

historical economic models focused

decarbonisation goals.

hybrid energy system using solar,

on the lowest cost option, but

wind, and battery technologies.

trade-offs and innovative financing

Do early stage mines anticipate

Biodiversity offsets in New

became essential in the face of

challenges with procuring battery

South Wales also posed financial

higher-cost sustainable initiatives.

electric trucks and other key

constraints.

She also highlighted the challenge

decarbonisation technologies in

of aligning limited resources with

line with net zero timelines?

Tom Blackwell reflected on common

the need for exploration and the

Blackwell: “We’re not spending a

industry challenges like speed to

pursuit of partnerships for carbon

whole lot of time at the moment

market and capital availability. “We

capture and power generation.

thinking about how we are going to

got tied up in the race to produce

Ellison too underscored the

put an order in with Komatsu or Cat

lithium and meet our customer

importance of forming early

or anything like that at the moment.

demands,” Blackwell noted. “So,

partnerships to navigate project

We’ve got to make some money first,

we just didn’t have the opportunity

journeys and address capital and

we’ve got to get up and running.”

to do all that fantastic engineering

renewable energy requirements.

that’s been talked about previously

Strickland talked about the

to come up with that fully electric

How are carbon footprint goals

challenge of procuring electric

situation.”

being integrated into asset and

trucks given the limited purchasing

investment planning?

power of small cap mines and the

Stuart Ellison emphasized the

Strickland discussed his company’s

need for pooled purchasing to solve

significance of making informed

goal of achieving net zero emissions

the problem.

investment choices, given the large

by taking a proactive approach to

amounts of capital required.

carbon reduction. He highlighted

“So, we joined the Electric Mine

the focus on understanding the

Consortium. And part of that plan

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PAGE 23

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE was to bring groups of medium-

out critical mineral strategy and

sized miners together with the same

funding plan from the Australian

sort of goal to try and get in front

Government could help create

of the right OEMs and get them to

infrastructure to generate

recognize that yes, this actually is

economic activity and catch up with

Samantha Langley, Principal

something we want to do.”

efforts in other countries like the

Carbon Offsets, BHP

US, Canada, and the UK. Is there a part that big miners can play in helping the industry

The global move towards

decarbonise?

decarbonisation is driving the need

Blackwell acknowledged the role

for many critical minerals, which is

of big miners in leading innovation

where you all have a part to play.

Nicole Roocke, CEO, Minerals

and development due to their

How has that helped you evaluate

Research Institute of Western

resources and suggested that

your projects?

Australia (MRIWA)

smaller miners leverage those

According to Blackwell, the

developments that align with their

development of their deposit

Mineral carbonation, the process

plans.

took time to gain traction due

through which certain minerals

to various challenges. However,

absorb and store CO2 from the

Strickland: “If they really want to

as the demand for lithium and

atmosphere, is being explored as

help, I think the best way they

battery minerals increased, the

a decarbonisation option in the

can is by sharing information.”

development plan received more

mining sector. At the Energy and

That would benefit the entire

support from investors and joint

Mines Australia Summit 2023,

industry by raising the collective

venture partners.

panelists discussed what is needed

understanding of how to approach decarbonisation challenges.

for this solution to reach its full He acknowledged the positive

potential.

direction of his company but Is there a part that the government

emphasized the challenges they

To set the scene, Greg Dipple,

can play in helping the small

need to overcome: “It’s production

Head of Science at Arca, explained

and junior miners in their

for us. That’s our story. That’s what

exactly how mineral carbonation

decarbonisation efforts?

we’ve got to do, then we’ll tackle

works: “It’s a an accelerated version

Simpson acknowledged that the

the rest of it.”

of a natural process called chemical

New South Wales Government had initiated efforts focused on critical minerals, and that his company had benefited from this

STREAM A: TURNING CARBON INTO ROCKS TO REALIZE NET ZERO MINING

initiative. He also made the point

weathering, where we take carbon dioxide from the air, react it with minerals in mine tailings to create a very durable form of CO2 storage, stable over geologic time.”

that mining had a broader impact beyond the project life itself, as the

Dipple added that there are two

infrastructure developed for mining

main classes of carbonate minerals

continues to benefit the community

that can be used for this process:

for many years, especially in areas

Chair: Peter Ker, Resources

magnesium carbonate and calcium

like western New South Wales.

Reporter, Australian Financial

carbonate. “The advantage of

Review

magnesium is it can be very

According to Duncan, accessing

abundant in the tailings from

government assistance, especially

some of the critical battery metals

for smaller companies like hers,

that we need to bind to realize

is challenging and that industry

our energy transition,” he noted,

associations should play a role in

referring particularly to nickel.

navigating government incentives.

Greg Dipple, Head of Science and

She proposed that a well-thought-

Co-Founder, Arca

One of the mining companies

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PAGE 24

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE exploring this option to advance

and potentially sell — carbon

its decarbonisation targets is BHP,

credits, either on voluntary or on

particularly at its Mount Keith site,

mandatory markets. In fact, Arca

Nickel West. Samantha Langley,

has already pre-sold over 500 tons

Principal Business Planning -

of credits to e-commerce giant

Climate Change at BHP, pointed

Shopify and the tech-led carbon

out that the 10 to 11 million tons

removal program Frontier.

NEWCREST: DETERMINING OUR NET ZERO STRATEGY FOR ENERGY AND TAKING ACTION

of tailings produced there already absorb about 40,000 tons of carbon

The Minerals Research Institute

dioxide naturally every year. “And

of Western Australia (MRIWA)

Trina Waldie, Program Manager,

that’s about 1% of the storage

is also working with Curtin

Energy, Newcrest

capacity of that dam,” she added.

University on a roadmap to support the development of

Trina Waldie, the program manager

Mineral carbonation has been on

mineral carbonation as an

for energy at Newcrest, presented

scientists and miners’ radar for

economic opportunity for WA.

the company’s net zero roadmap

about two decades, but testing and

Their work includes scientific and

and its strategy for decarbonising.

adoption was slowed down by the

economic research to prove the

The first step was a mapping

global financial crisis and other

social, social and environmental

exercise of power generation

environmental priorities — until

credentials of this solution, as well

technologies across the supply

now. “I always joke that the climate

as understanding the regulatory

chain, grading them by carbon

is right,” said Langley. “We’ve got

framework needed to make it work.

abatement potential and

the nickel industry growing, electric

technological maturity. This formed

vehicles and batteries which need

the baseline list of technologies for

to be produced with low-carbon

each operational site.

and eventually zero-carbon nickel.”

While it waited for the mining industry to be ready, mineral carbonation companies conducted more research and improved their

I ALWAYS JOKE THAT THE CLIMATE IS RIGHT

The strategy then delved into each site’s decarbonisation within the context of overall energy strategy, considering energy supply,

processes. “We’ve been running

demand, infrastructure, risks,

field tests at mine sites for nearly

Nicole Roocke, CEO of the MRIWA,

and stakeholder requirements.

20 years, and now’s the time to

even believes that there is an

Overcoming hurdles and filling data

get out and do it for real. So we

opportunity to reprocess tailings

gaps were addressed through a

want to change from running what

as part of the mineral carbonation,

work plan, refreshed annually.

seems like a large research project

to extract critical minerals that

into pilots, with the intention of

have not been considered core

The analysis of emissions

delivering 1,000 tonnes of carbon

commodities and turn waste into

highlighted Newcrest’s five

dioxide removal in our first 12

an economic by-product. “We need

operating sites with the bulk of

months of operation,” said Dipple.

to go bigger, bolder. But getting

emissions originating from Cadia

the measurement right and getting

(39%), Telfer (22%), and Lihir (32%).

Using tailings to absorb CO2

the method right will be key to

For Cadia, Newcrest implemented a

is a great solution to reduce

unlocking the economics for this to

396 MW power purchase agreement

hard-to-abate emissions from

be successful,” she said.

with the Rye Park wind farm

processes within specific mining

representing about 40% of Cadia’s

operations, but the potential of

power needs.

mineral carbonation doesn’t stop there. Some miners are looking

Telfer, an off-grid mine which is

at perfecting the methodology

currently powered from natural

to calculate CO2 absorption in

gas with diesel back-up, is studying

tailings in order to produce —

renewable hybrid options. “The

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PAGE 25

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE challenge for all off-grid mine sites

“So internally, as part of Pacific

has been alluded to earlier today,

Energy, we work together with all

and I reinforce it is: what do we do

of the parts of the business, and we

when the wind’s not blowing and the sun’s not shining?” remarks Waldie.

Hence, the study of long-duration energy storage options for Telfer.

Meanwhile, Lihir, located in Papua New Guinea on a small island in an extinct volcanic crater, faces decarbonisation challenges due to limited renewable options and geographical constraints.

“Lihir is the most challenging site in Newcrest’s portfolio to decarbonise,” says Waldie. “And consequently, we are spending the most effort to find a solution here.”

“We have options for Lihir in the short term only and for partial reduction, not full decarbonisation.”

CASE STUDY: FIRST AUSTRALIAN MINE TO OPERATE ON 100% SOLAR POWER

AND WE’RE ALSO MAKING THE MOST OF THE ASSETS THAT WE’VE GOT SO THAT WE CAN EXPLOIT THOSE HYDROCARBONOFF HOURS FOR THE LONGEST POSSIBLE DURATION commercial operation in November 2020.

The microgrid at Sandy Ridge is an unmanned site, primarily relying on solar power during daylight hours, which results in the reduction of hydrocarbon (diesel) usage. The system includes string inverters, grid-forming batteries, and backup generators for redundancy and load growth potential. Cloud cameras are used for cloud movement forecasting to optimize solar generation.

The project’s success has resulted in significant carbon savings,

Craig Blizard, Senior Technical Lead, Pacific Energy Craig Blizard, Senior Technical Lead at Pacific Energy, presented a case study on the first Australian mine operating on 100% solar power.

Pacific Energy is an Independent Power Producer (IPP) that focuses on off-grid mining electrification and renewable energy solutions. It currently has 48 long term PPAs in operation with a total capacity of about 700 MW. The project, Tellus Sandy Ridge, began in June 2020 and achieved

eliminating the use of around half a million liters of diesel and reducing carbon emissions by approximately 1300 tons since its operation began. All this with 100% renewables penetration.

Blizard emphasized key technical

model this, we actually replicate all these pieces, because this is critical to the commercial goals of the project,” says Blizard.

“It’s not just about whether or not you can turn the engine off, it’s about can you sustain the operation in all these transients.

And we’re also making the most of the assets that we’ve got so that we can exploit those hydrocarbonoff hours for the longest possible duration, which obviously has benefits for everybody involved.”

In conclusion, the project demonstrates that large-scale renewable energy systems are feasible and commercially viable. However, it requires careful planning, investment in modeling, and understanding both the technical and commercial aspects to achieve successful and sustainable outcomes.

“A methodology that worked for a very small system in relative terms is absolutely applicable to very large systems,” concludes Blizard.

“And we’re seeing this time and time again.”

PANEL: BUILDING ROADMAPS TO DECARBONISE ENERGY FOR MINES

takeaways from the project, including the need to ensure system stability and smooth transitions when turning off fossil fuel engines, or when faults occur.

Modeling and understanding system behavior during transient

Chair: Nikhil Dhyan, General Manager, 5B

conditions are essential for a successful and reliable renewable energy system.

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PAGE 26

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE

Steven McClare, Chief Technical Officer, Northern Star Resources

Chris Carr, Head of Technical Services, IGO Limited

It is crucial to begin the

could drive the cost down and

development of the energy

achieve up to 80% renewable

roadmap before the project’s initial

penetrations. He suggested

stages, preferably in the concept

customizing wind turbines to the

phase. Preferably, it should be

mine life as one potential solution

internally developed, according to

to the problem.

Tiggy Rogers: “You have to own the energy matrix for your mine site,

The energy shift and fleet

because it is particular to your mine

electrification: how are miners

site and to your operations as well.”

integrating energy and mobility

And early planning could

decarbonisation?

completely upend mining methods,

The transition of fleets to electric

according to Steven McClare’s

vehicles is currently more

example of caves.

challenging compared to stationary power solutions due to the lack of

Tiggy Rogers, Manager Study Energy Transition, Roy Hill

Sun Li, Wind Engineering &

“You can build caves completely

timely solutions from OEMs that

differently. We used to build them

could help miners meet the 2030

20 years ago, even 10 years ago, to

decarbonisation targets.

go uphill to infrastructure so water stayed away. In the future, you can

In this situation Roy Hill, which

run it downhill, so you can recharge

has thousands of kilometers of

your battery and have a continuous

haul roads and needs stationary

energy freecycle, just going round

charging solutions, is investing to

and round and that sort of thing,

develop its own technology and

and then deal with the water

prototypes that OEMs could later

separately.”

pick up.

Business Director, Goldwind

“And I think the only way that we are looking to address that

The panel comprised a well-selected cross-section of participants from across the mining industry with backgrounds from resources (battery metals, iron ore, energy,

TYPICALLY, EMISSIONS ARE 70% FIXED PLANT AND 30% MOBILE

gold) and OEMs (solar and wind).

The discussions were chaired by 5B’s Nikhil Dhyan, who stressed that miners needed to be bold, even audacious, as they planned for decarbonisation.

What is needed to accelerate and support the transition to fully decarbonise power systems for mines?

The participants agreed that early planning was essential for decarbonisation in mining operations.

challenge is trying to invest in solutions or invest in retrofit solutions and just to prove out a prototype for stationary charging with the hope that we can be supporting the next Cummins or

On concerns regarding capital

the next Wabtec or the next MTU,”

required for decarbonisation, IGO’s

said Rogers.

Chris Carr revealed the company’s innovative funding strategy via an

There’s also a focus on gaining

internal carbon price.

operational knowledge by

“We run a shadow price now where

electrifying smaller assets before

we put $60 a tonne into a fund

transitioning to large trucks.

from all of our emissions. And

However, this is not possible

then we can fund decarbonisation

for every mine, according to

projects from that.”

the experience at Roy Hill, and reportedly, at Rio Tinto.

How does a short-life mine complicate decarbonisation? Sun

Typically, emissions are 70% fixed

Li referred to Juwi’s presentation

plant and 30% mobile, according to

earlier in the day on how wind

Chris Carr. IGO has, nevertheless,

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PAGE 27

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE set itself an “audacious” target

the problem of long lead times

minimizing complexity. This would

to completely electrify its

in wind projects by standardizing

speed up the process and reduce

underground operation at the

its products through a pre-

the pressure on partners.

Cosmos mine within a couple of

manufacturing design process.

years.

On logistics delays due to smaller

According to Chris Carr, a PPA

turbine order quantities, Sun Li

is the “really easy one,” because

What might hamper our build out

said characteristically: “We feel that

the power company provides the

of renewable energy systems to

pain, then we, Goldwind, invest in

capital and miners pay it off along

mines, where are the bottlenecks?

our own cranes. We buy all cranes

with the unit cost.

Chris Carr discussed the supply-

for Western Australia so that we

side challenges in achieving high

can bring the certainty of the

However, there are also financing

renewable penetration for fixed

project deliveries to our customer.”

alternatives such as from super

plant operations. While solar power

funds, green power investors,

alone provides around 30-35%

How is the shift to decarbonised

even self-financing, that might be

penetration, due to limitations like

power resulting in operational

cheaper.

daylight availability and weather

and design changes for greenfield

conditions, a combination of wind

sites?

How are miners addressing

and solar, along with advanced

In the context of designing

concerns over ethical sourcing

energy storage systems like flow

greenfield mining projects, Chris

renewable energy components in

batteries, could potentially push

Carr highlighted the significant

line with ESG goals?

penetration to 90-95%.

advantages of incorporating

Sun Li detailed how Goldwind

electrification from the outset

collaborated with suppliers,

because the higher initial

conducting audits, and ensuring

investment in electrification

continuous improvement in their

equipment would be outweighed by

compliance on ethical sourcing.

both capital and operational cost

“So, this is really a journey of

savings.

partners working together and

SO, THIS IS REALLY A JOURNEY OF PARTNERS WORKING TOGETHER AND WINNING THE TRUST OF EACH OTHER.

winning the trust of each other.

In proof, Carr cites a ‘2019

But the key is transparency to each

lookback’ example of the company’s

other.”

Nova mine: “If we’d found the Nova mine then and built it then and did

What are the pros and cons

it all electric, we reckon we had 20

of a phased in approach to

“We’ve got lead times on

to $50 million of NPV advantage

decarbonising power versus

renewables… you need serious

going electric, just with equipment

investing in highest penetration of

batteries to make any more than

that was available then and it’s so

renewables and storage from the

that combination of wind and

much better now.”

outset?

solar,” Chris said of the bottlenecks in this regard.

Steven McClare discussed the siteHow do miners view the different

specific nature of solving challenges

contract models for renewable

related to renewable energy

On the last 5 to 10% renewable

energy and storage – owner

integration.

penetration: “It should be green

operator vs. power purchase

fuels, and a whole range of other

agreement (PPA)?

He said Northern Star could achieve

ideas people are going to come

Steven McClare advocated taking

30-40% penetration very quickly at

up with and this is a huge range

a calculated ‘risk-on’ approach to

its Jundee mine and then took it in

of ideas out there at the moment

achieve emission reduction at a

phases from there.

on energy storage, besides just

low levelized cost of energy in the

battery.”

transition to electrification. The aim

“I guess from the work we see

in contracting is to manage wind

getting 40 to 60% is easy and

and resource risks with a focus on

commercial,” said McClare.

Sun Li said Goldwind addressed

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PAGE 28

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE However, it may be necessary to

“The lines weren’t sufficient to carry

engineering assistance to ensure

partner with people, especially

the energy away from the project

the project’s success.

around the capital, to get up to 80%

and get it to where the electrons

or higher.

needed to go,” says Greg. “You

AGGREKO: LESSONS LEARNED FROM HYBRID MICROGRIDS

know, and you might say, that’s an incredibly straightforward thing. I

EDL: OPTIMIZING RENEWABLE ENERGY FOR DECARBONISATION

wonder why they didn’t see that.”

System strength, on the other hand, is crucial for stable voltage and frequency regulation, as well as the ability to clear faults effectively. On a positive note, Greg emphasizes

Jason Dickfos, Head of Growth,

the importance of modern

EDL

Greg Cheesewright, Renewables

inverters, which have significantly

Engineering Manager, Aggreko

improved over the past decade.

The presentation by Jason Dickfos

These inverters, with higher short

highlighted the efforts of EDL, a

In this presentation, Greg

circuit ratios and faster response

global distributed energy producer,

Cheesewright, Renewables

times, make it possible to run

in optimizing renewable energy

Engineering Manager for Aggreko,

hybrid projects more efficiently

for decarbonisation in the mining

discussed the learning experience

and with reduced reliance on

sector.

from hybrid microgrid projects.

conventional generators.

Over the last five years, there

EDL, a leading global producer of

has been an increased interest in

sustaining distributed energy, owns

renewable energy projects driven

and operates 90 power stations and

by environmental concerns and the

gas processing facilities across five

need to reduce fuel costs. However, in the rush to implementation, mines may overlook very basic factors that can, however, hugely impact the success of their renewables project.

As an example, Greg highlights the challenges faced by one particular

THE LINES WEREN’T SUFFICIENT TO CARRY THE ENERGY AWAY FROM THE PROJECT AND GET IT TO WHERE THE ELECTRONS NEEDED TO GO

project in the West Murray region

countries, and three continents.

It produces over one gigawatt of clean energy and has been working for many years with customers to implement renewable solutions in the form of PV, solar, wind, and battery storage.

Decarbonisation drivers for customers include global net

of Victoria, Australia, known as the

Greg advises project developers

zero commitments, competitive

“Rhombus of Regret.” The main

to pay attention to primary

advantage, shareholder

challenges encountered in the

equipment ratings, ensuring

expectations, decreasing renewable

project were a lack of transmission

they are adequately sized and

costs, and rising fuel prices. EDL

system capacity and system

not overloaded. Furthermore,

has achieved 50-70% renewable

strength.

developers should carefully

energy by successfully integrating

assess the best system sizing to

solar, wind, and battery storage

Transmission system capacity refers

overcome challenges related to

into its microgrids, while remaining

to the ability to carry energy away

system strength. In Greg’s words,

cost-competitive and reliable.

from the project and deliver it to

developers might do well to

the necessary destinations. In the

conduct an “audit” of these factors

“Optimizing renewable energy

“Rhombus of Regret,” the grid was

during early stages of project

becomes a delicate balancing act

simply not geared to handle the

design.

between the load that needs to be

influx of solar and wind generated power from the new projects.

met, available renewable resources, Finally, Greg suggests seeking

capital cost and ongoing operating

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PAGE 29

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE

OPTIMIZING RENEWABLE ENERGY BECOMES A DELICATE BALANCING ACT BETWEEN THE LOAD THAT NEEDS TO BE MET cost,” observed Dickfos. “And it is an iterative process that requires constant optimization.”

At 56 MW, EDL’s Agnew project is Australia’s largest hybrid renewable energy microgrid and the first mine in the country to utilize large-scale wind generation that interfaced with a thermal gas and diesel

data at its global control centre in

The presentation highlights the

Brisbane, which it uses to develop

difficulties of electrification and

and refine its modelling for future

renewable adoption due to the

sites.

scale, energy intensity, and capital intensity of South32’s operations.

“This means we’re able to

Electrifying massive operations

accurately determine RE levels

like Worsley Alumina, one of the

whilst installing risk capital

largest alumina refineries in the

providing the lowest cost of

world, requires significant changes

electricity,” said Dickfos.

to both the facility and the broader electricity network.

The electrification of operations and fleets using reliable electric

Furthermore, transitioning to

plants and renewable synthetic

renewables for Hillside Aluminium,

fuels, such as biomethane, is the

the biggest aluminium smelter in

next phase of decarbonisation for

the southern hemisphere, demands

mines.

multi-gigawatts of renewable

CASE STUDY: MANAGING THE COMPLEXITIES OF GRID DECARBONISATION

$6 billion, and that’s without considering firming network or

The Agnew hybrid microgrid

wind energy in reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

EDL’s latest hybrid renewable project in Jabiru, located in the World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park, is a sustainable model for remote communities.

Previously reliant on 100% dieselgenerated electricity, the Jabiru power station now operates on zero diesel throughout the day, marking a critical milestone in the remote hybrid project development.

By switching off diesel reliance, EDL has achieved a remarkable 50% renewable energy objective for the site, guaranteed over a 15-year Power Purchase Agreement using only PV as the renewable resource.

EDL gathers real time performance

Kent show that the cost of 3 GW of Hillside alone would cost roughly

storage.

demonstrating the potential of

Back-of-the-envelope figures from renewables, for 1.2 GW (40%) for

station, solar farm, and battery

achieved up to 90% renewables,

generation capacity.

other costs.

Louis Kent, Practice Lead Group Decarbonisation, South32

“At Worsley Alumina, in addition to the investment in renewables,

The presentation by Louis Kent

we also have to consider the

discussed the complexities of grid

investment required to convert a

decarbonisation across multiple

combustion-based process to one

operations for South32, a globally

that runs on electrons and the

diversified mining and metals

network upgrades to meet this new

company that was spun off from

demand,” said Kent. “If your mental

BHP in 2015.

arithmetic is keeping up, you’ll realize that these numbers are

The company’s key decarbonisation

pretty big.”

challenges include transitioning to low-carbon energy sources,

To address these challenges, the

such as gas and renewables for

company is exploring partnerships

its Australian and South African

with other entities specializing

operations. The company’s Scope 1

in renewable energy projects

and 2 emissions are predominantly

and seeking opportunities for

from the following assets: Hillside

off-balance sheet contracts to

Aluminium (59%), Worsley Alumina

avoid looking like an energy

(17%), and Illawarra Metallurgical

infrastructure company from a

Coal (10%) operations.

capital allocation perspective.

“When your investors are investing

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PAGE 30

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE in you because they want to

to have the contractual mechanisms

invest in mineral resources,

in place to get good value for money

quietly turning into an energy

for having that capacity available all

infrastructure company is not the wisest move,” warned Kent.

In the short term, South32 is planning to initially transition from coal to gas for Worsley Alumina to ensure operational continuity while

THERE ARE TIME PERIODS WHERE A BATTERY JUST DOESN’T REALLY CUT THE MUSTARD

working on electrification.

the time,” Drager adds.

The main factors driving APA’s customers’ interest in renewable energy are reliability, cost, and emissions reduction. While the cost of renewables is generally cheaper

APA’s assets in the region include

than fossil fuel-based generation,

“Given the scale of the

the gas pipeline into town and

the transition requires careful

electrification challenge, both

power stations, including combined

planning to address firming needs

inside our fence and more

cycle gas and open cycle gas

and cost efficiencies.

importantly, across the whole

power stations, along with a newly

South West Interconnected System,

constructed 100 MW solar farm

To a question on how things have

and the urgency of reducing our

called the Dugald River solar farm.

changed over the last few years

reliance on coal, a transition

The main customers for Dugald

in the renewable energy space in

straight from coal to electrification

are MMG, New Century, and the

mining, Drager replied:

unfortunately, just won’t be fast

Glencore-owned Mount Isa Mine.

“Historically, it was always me

enough,” according to Kent.

APA is committed to a pathway to

trying to sell a solar farm or a wind

net zero emissions by 2040 for its

farm to a customer or a mining

In the circumstances, in parallel

power assets, aiming for a 35%

company. And I guess now that the

with the transition to gas at

reduction in emissions intensity by

tide has changed with the market

Worsley, South32 is also working

2030. To achieve this, the company

and really the demand is the other

on efficiency projects to reduce its

plans to invest heavily in renewable

way. How quickly can you install

steam demand and electrification.

energies and work collaboratively

this solar farm or wind farm? So

with its customers in the area who

yeah, definitely its changed - chalk

share similar goals.

and cheese, I would say.”

The challenges in transitioning to

PANEL: ENABLING RENEWABLE ENERGY FOR PILBARA MINES

APA GROUP: GAS FIRMING AND AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST RENEWABLE MICROGRID

renewable energy lie in firming, which ensures reliable power supply when renewable sources are intermittent. APA aims to invest in more renewable energy projects and Andrew Drager, Business

transition existing gas-fired power

Development Manager, Energy

stations into firming and peaking

Solutions Power

stations to complement renewables.

Chair: Bethwyn Cowcher, Division Director, Macquarie Group

The APA Group, a gas pipeline

“There are time periods where

company heavily involved in the

a battery just doesn’t really cut

energy transition, is developing gas

the mustard,” says Drager. “So,

firming at Mount Isa, Australia’s

having that firming capacity in the

largest renewable microgrid, which

background is important.”

Jeff Nitsch, General Manager

supplies six main customers in the Mount Isa region, with about 20,000

“It’s very important to have it

New Markets, ACCIONA Energía

residents and an average load of

flexible, to be able to turn on and off

Australia

around 230 MW.

quickly, to ramp quite fast, but also

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PAGE 31

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE taken,” remarked Nitsch, given the uncertainties around the grid.

Sandra McInnes, representing Hon. Bill Johnston, Minister for Mines and Petroleum; Energy; Industrial Relations, Government of Western Australia

Sandra McInnes, Chief Sustainability Officer, Pilbara Minerals

I THINK FROM A REPUTATION PERSPECTIVE, WE JUST HAVE TO GET ON AND DO IT AND GET INVOLVED STRAIGHTAWAY. DON’T WAIT, MAKE THE SMALL MOVES “You have to have a regulatory framework, you have to have economic dispatch, you need to have the system security structures, you need all the things that other large grids already have,” he added.

Mike Houlahan, CFO, Horizon Power The panel deliberated on the decarbonisation challenge that mines in the Pilbara face given the vast and unparalleled scale of renewable projects required to be

“But we need to design them in a way that they’re going to function for all the users in the Pilbara.”

How are current renewable energy projects for mines developing in that region?

Miners in the Pilbara region

executed concurrently.

have varying responses to

What types of infrastructure

terms of their renewable energy

and policy changes are working towards supporting the rollout of large-scale renewables for mines in the Pilbara?

Hon. Minister Bill Johnston said the Government was working to create a unified grid for major electricity users and producers in the Pilbara.

This integration would facilitate the region’s transition to cleaner energy sources, while supporting projects related to critical minerals and decarbonisation. Sharing infrastructure for renewables would also be cost-effective due to the system support required.

decarbonisation imperatives in targets and plans.

According to Jeff Nitsch, while some miners were innovatively incorporating renewables into their operations, others appear to be slower to act due to uncertainties around existing assets and grid planning.

“One might argue that it’s rather more difficult for miners in the Pilbara with large mines, existing systems, existing transmission infrastructure and power generation to really sort of take the leap forward that needs to be

Pilbara Minerals, enthusiastically welcomed an interconnected grid.

“It’s music to my ears when I hear the Minister talk about an interconnected grid up there, because that will make our pathway to decarbonising so much easier.”

Pilbara Minerals has set short, midterm, and long-term targets in its decarbonisation pathway, including commissioning a solar plant to power their facility, and expanding it in the future.

However, electrifying or decarbonising the mine fleet is a much bigger problem, and it needs to be solved in collaboration with OEMs. How are you thinking about managing all of this activity with everyone and all of these major energy companies trying to decarbonise at once? What type of challenges are there?

Mike Houlihan said the simultaneous efforts to decarbonise in the region had created a rush for land access, environmental studies, and resources, leading to inefficiencies, delays, and higher costs. He emphasized the need for coordinated planning and infrastructure to manage the surge in activity.

Jeff Nitsch suggested gaining a first-mover advantage to counter challenges in delivering projects due to constraints in planning, approvals, and resource availability.

Hon. Minister Bill Johnston observed that while the government could assist with planning rules and structure, the

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PAGE 32

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE commitment and investment from

challenges, and it does take time.”

Sandra McInnes: “I think from a

participants would be crucial to the

McInnes outlined other hurdles,

reputation perspective, we just

success of an integrated grid.

too, including supply chain

have to get on and do it and get

bottlenecks, logistics, the

involved straightaway. Don’t wait,

What are the plans that are

remoteness of the Pilbara, and the

make the small moves.”

evolving to expand network

scarcity of skilled labour.

capacity and interconnectivity for

Mike Houlahan remarked that

For instance, one small step

renewables?

while smaller projects were more

towards decarbonising is moving to

Johnston explained that while

expensive in terms of their levelized

LNG. It’s not the ultimate solution

the east coast and South West

cost of energy, they presented

but making those steps along the

had integrated system plans,

opportunities for innovation

journey - absolutely critical, in

the Pilbara region lacked such

and for experimentation with

McInnes’ view.

comprehensive planning. However,

technologies such as hydrogen and

once a commitment to integration

energy storage.

is in place, a plan for the region’s

To a question from the audience on financing of renewable projects,

integration could be developed.

McInnes added that collaboration

the panel participants were of the

Mike Houlahan noted that

and sharing knowledge would be

opinion that for the right project

opportunities were emerging in

key to achieving renewable energy

at the right time, funding was not

utilizing shared infrastructure,

goals efficiently. “Maybe we can

an issue. Moreover, it was a mine’s

leading to further possibilities.

take a few leaves out of the work

own decision whether to avail on-

“Unless there is an integrated

that was done collaboratively

or off-balance sheet financing.

network and grid, and therefore

around safety in the resource

larger scale merchant opportunities

sector a couple of decades ago,”

for those, there would always be

she suggested.

winners and losers.”

What advice do you have for miners

PANEL: BREAKFAST BRIEFING - OPERATIONAL IMPLICATIONS OF RENEWABLES AND STORAGE FOR MINES

What are the factors that you’re

trying to implement renewable

finding in terms of what is limiting

energy projects in the Pilbara at

your ability as a miner to move

this point?

forward with reliable and economic

“Just do it,” said Jeff Nitsch

renewable energy?

emphasizing the importance of

Smaller organizations such as

getting started quickly in the

Pilbara Minerals faced unique

renewable energy transition. He

Chair: Ray Massie, Specialist Hybrid

difficulties in the Pilbara region

advised miners to begin by building

Energy Solutions, Entura

while implementing renewable

solar projects that were initially

energy projects, according to

small, and not to wait for a fully

McInnes.

optimized plan.

“When you’re doing things like solar

Minister Johnston also shared

or wind, you need a lot of land.

a similar view: “The grid can

Greg Koppens, Specialist Engineer

But it’s quite complicated to get

come later. There are a lot of

– Hybrid Renewable Systems,

access to the land, get the relevant

complexities about the grid. So, you

Entura

approvals, and work through all

know, let’s move now - you don’t

the heritage and cultural approvals

need to wait.”

that need to take place,” remarked McInnes. “So, as much energy and

“There’s lots of opportunities

passion as everyone has around

for decarbonising immediately,”

building renewable energy in

Johnston added. “And that will put

Paul White, Operations Manager,

the Pilbara, it’s not without its

you in a good position.”

EDL

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PAGE 33

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE The added modularity of hybrid

change 90 degrees in an instant and

plants also comes with daily

we’ll lose 50 MW of supply in three

variations in pricing, which need

minutes. We hadn’t understood

to be taken into account in mining

that fully as an operation team,”

Glenn Clark, Director, Business

decisions. Waldie explained that

said White. The team then realized

Development ANZ, Redflow

the differences in cost profiles

that gas engines were not the best

between solar and wind, and the

spinning reserve solutions as they

cost of the firming technology must

“do not like to stop and start”,

be understood by the mining team,

and are now looking at the most

which is used to working with a flat

sustainable fuel option to complete

daily price. Concretely, it means not

the site’s 80-90% renewable

Dan Su, Technical Sales Manager,

necessarily letting mining decisions

penetration goal.

JinkoSolar ANZ

drive power, but rather let power availability influence mining

As more hybrid and storage

decisions.

systems get implemented, panelists worried that new obstacles would

This new operational model

emerge. One of these challenges

is sometimes called demand

revolves around skill sets. EDL,

Trina Waldie, Program Manager,

response, whereby mines run the

for instance, is now focusing on

Energy, Newcrest

most energy-intensive processes

training people directly at mine

when renewable energy is plentiful.

sites to avoid a talent shortage

As hybrid power plants become

Greg Koppens, Specialist Engineer,

because, according to White, “there

more and more common on

Hybrid Renewable Systems at

is no training course for this work”.

mine sites, miners and operators

Entura, noted that this seems to

are getting familiar with the

finally be starting to happen on

operational implications of this

mine sites, after years talking about

transition. Representatives from

demand response “as a dream”.

Entura, Redflow, JinkoSolar, EDL and Newcrest Mining shared lessons

Switching to this type of renewable-

learned at a breakfast briefing during

powered mining comes with a

the 2023 Energy and Mines Australia

steep learning curve, and it may

Summit.

take some time for processes and solutions to be perfected. Paul

THIS NEW OPERATIONAL MODEL IS SOMETIMES CALLED DEMAND RESPONSE, WHEREBY MINES RUN THE MOST ENERGYINTENSIVE PROCESSES WHEN RENEWABLE ENERGY IS PLENTIFUL.

In terms of design considerations,

White, Operations Manager at

all agreed that there is no one-

EDL, named a few of the obstacles

size-fits-all. Reliability needs to be

encountered while running the

assessed for every function of the

company’s hundreds of hybrid

mine and processing plant to find

power stations — including the one

the specific operations where the

installed for Gold Fields at Agnew.

loss of reliability that comes with

“The learning curve is huge for

At the same time, miners would do

renewables is acceptable. “That’s one

the workers on site. They’ve got

well to explore alternatives to the

of the mindset changes we’re having

many levers to pull, as opposed to

leading battery storage solutions,

to drive: thinking about what the real

a thermal station, which only had

as supply chain risk is increasing

value of each individual use is rather

one.”

along with demand. “We’re already

than the energy use of the collective

seeing really alarming supply chain

whole, which is how our power

One of the most recent challenges

constraints: inverter lead times

stations have always been designed,”

at Agnew has been the variability

of two years, and high voltage

said Trina Waldie, Energy Program

that came with the addition of

transformer lead times of six years.

Manager at Newcrest Mining.

wind to the energy mix. “Wind can

So there is strong demand from

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PAGE 34

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE the market for alternatives to avoid

This panel, composed of experts

climate change transition risk - so

supply chain risks and to meet

from mining, finance, and

policy risk, legal risk, regulatory

changing requirements around

decarbonisation, discussed what

risk, technology risk and market

storage duration,” said Glenn Clark,

is essential to drive progress in

risk,” Buschman said.

Director of Business Development at

strategies and technologies within

flow battery manufacturer Redflow.

the mining sector to achieve the

“These all need to be addressed

target of net zero by 2050.

at the same time concurrently,

BREAKFAST BRIEFING: ACCELERATING DECARBONISATION IN MINING

for a company like ourselves just What are the biggest roadblocks in

to transition, and to provide the

trying to realize a pathway to net

materials that are necessary to

zero for mining?

support that transition.”

Rob Adams highlighted three main areas of concern for miners on

Which technologies and strategies

their decarbonisation journey. First,

are expected to be game changing

the contract term of a renewable

in terms of their impacts on

energy project is usually long, 15

reducing carbon intensity?

Chair: Dominic DaCruz, Executive -

years or more in the case of wind,

Investment financier Robert Wilson

ESG and Stakeholder Engagement,

to make it viable and competitive.

emphasized that his company

Zenith Energy

This has to be viewed in the context

prioritized proven technologies.

of mine life.

On new technologies, Wilson commented: “That’s where some

Secondly, Adams said it is

of the challenges arise - how do

essential to assess the credibility

you get that first, commercial

and reliability of the project

implementation? And I think that’s

Holly Buschman, Vice President

counterparty, given the higher costs

where the industry and particularly

Sustainability Strategy &

of projects and lower flexibility in

the big players probably need

Community, South32

relocating them, if required.

to play a significant role in

In the case of an existing fuel

helping some of these nascent

supply arrangement, which might

technologies.”

suffer from a ‘take-or-pay’ clause, the mine has to carefully evaluate

In Wilson’s view, long term energy

the fuel’s compatibility, as well as

storage is a huge challenge. In this

Rob Adams, IPP Growth Manager,

cost implications, for the proposed

context, vanadium batteries and

Zenith Energy

renewable energy project.

RedoxBlox energy storage modules are technologies that hold promise.

Holly Buschman provided insights

Rob Adams discussed his role

into South32’s decarbonisation

in assessing opportunities and

strategy, in the context of the

considering emerging technologies

company’s complex business

for his company.

Robert Wilson, Executive Director:

model for base metals spanning

Western Australia and Resources,

both owned projects, as well as a

“What we can do is run financial

Clean Energy Finance Corporation

number of partnerships with junior

models to see how competitive

explorers around the world.

we can make new and emerging technology; we also need to

Robert Carruthers, Head of Corporate Affairs & Investor Relations, Liontown Resources

“When I put all that in context, and

consider, frankly, what is proven?

think about roadblocks, probably

And what is bankable, and what our

at the highest level and the most

board will approve, and what our

macro level, the first and foremost

financiers will. So, it’s a balance, I

roadblock that comes to mind is

guess,” Adams remarked.

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PAGE 35

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE Both Wilson and Adams view

decarbonisation program really

electrification of fleets as a game-

helps.”

changer. According to Adams, electrifying mining fleets will be the next wave of renewable energy asset deployment, and will have a significant impact on the industry’s energy landscape.

How are you implementing the de-risking of renewables projects, especially for conservative lenders or boards?

Robert Carruthers, representing battery minerals producer Liontown Resources, said the company aimed to start operations with a substantial renewable energy percentage and de-risked the process by collaborating with

ELECTRIFYING MINING FLEETS WILL BE THE NEXT WAVE OF RENEWABLE ENERGY ASSET DEPLOYMENT, AND WILL HAVE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON THE INDUSTRY’S ENERGY LANDSCAPE. by virtue of the power demand of that smelter, which is about 1250 MW .”

What opportunities are there

Zenith.

for financing investments in low

“We’re not power providers,

mining can meet its carbon

we’re not energy experts,” said Carruthers. “So, we worked with a Tier 1 provider like Zenith to get the confidence that we can be substantially renewably powered from start up.”

Holly Buschman emphasized the uniqueness of decarbonisation pathways for mining companies, comparing Liontown and South32, and highlighting the differentiation in approaches based on each company’s portfolio and integration level.

The sheer scale of South32’s operations in South Africa made it difficult to consider the risk of a standalone renewables solution.

“With regard to our Hillside Aluminium Smelter in South Africa, decarbonising that operation involves working with the South African government to decarbonise the electricity grid in South Africa

emissions technologies to ensure footprint goals?

Funding is available for good projects, especially those related to decarbonisation, according to Robert Wilson. For more challenging or shorter-life projects, it could be harder to secure funding.

Moreover, some miners were more equal than other (smaller) ones on funding, according to Wilson. “If you’re in the mid tiers, or the tier ones, you’ll be corporately funded, so no issues there. But it’s really hard for parties like ourselves to want to fund something specific because we, you know, we can’t go fund.”

Wilson’s advice to junior miners on getting finance: “I think the markets are tightening. I think it is challenging out there for juniors generally but being able to set yourself apart by having a strong

Further, collaboration and partnerships are crucial in overcoming such challenges.

Dominic DaCruz referred to the IGO Nova engine-off project that shared risk and reward and tried something new and different to achieve the desired outcome.

Having a decarbonisation strategy, a narrative and plan is what convinces and provides comfort to people who are looking to invest either debt or equity in a project, added DaCruz.

Rob Wilson seconded this view, saying that financiers could go the extra mile for a deserving project: “If you’re targeting 75% renewable energy, but you have a case that goes to 80%, but it’s eroding NPV, we can try to close that gap through some of our pricing terms.”

What are policy mechanisms that would help support the mining transition to net zero?

Participants highlighted stability of policy as a key enabler for net zero.

Holly Buschman strongly emphasized “stable policy mechanisms that enable long term investment, and ideally with the avoidance of red tape wherever possible; policy mechanisms that acknowledge the need for a transition and ideally an orderly transition, and one as rapid as possible.”

Robert Carruthers stressed the importance of consistency in messaging from federal and state governments. He pointed out that while there was more consistency in messaging, there was still a

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PAGE 36

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE lack of harmony between policies

as a senior lecturer in the School

significant costs and emissions, and

and regulations that could hinder

of Electrical and Mechanical

also to improve safety for workers.

project development.

Engineering at The University

The presentation introduced the

of Adelaide where he leads the

complexities of designing electrified

“It’s still very hard to do the basic

mining electrification project. Prior

mining trucks, considering factors

things, to get these types of

to this, he worked as a specialist

like battery technology, charging

projects up whether it’s a critical

in power system engineering at

options (fast charging, battery

minerals project like ours, or

California ISO, a research scientist

swapping, trolley assist), and truck

whether it’s an off-grid power

at NEC Laboratories America, and

speed.

solution. “To navigate your way

a postdoctoral research fellow at

through multiple tenure pathways,

both the Technical University of

“I have to warn you, electrifying

environmental approval pathways

Denmark and the University of

your mobile fleet is not as easy

in-parallel processes, is getting

Queensland.

as buying an electric fleet from

harder, not easier.”

whatever company and installing a fast charger, “ said Dr. Kani.

What are other solutions that can help us to accelerate decarbonisation in mining?

Carruther’s response was that conservatism in the mining industry sometimes hampered the adoption of new technology, and breaking through this barrier required collaborative effort and sharing knowledge about what works and what doesn’t.

“In fact, there are a lot of design

“I HAVE TO WARN YOU, ELECTRIFYING YOUR MOBILE FLEET IS NOT AS EASY AS BUYING AN ELECTRIC FLEET FROM WHATEVER COMPANY AND INSTALLING A FAST CHARGER

parameters on the truck, on your charging technology, as well as the operation that could have a huge impact on your cost of the solution and your productivity.”

Simulation results from a hypothetical mining scenario reveal counterintuitive findings about the trade-offs between battery size, charging frequency,

Wilson emphasized the need for

Dr. Kani explained the importance

and truck speed on both costs and

strong and consistent leadership

of decision-making tools for

productivity.

in driving the necessary changes

effective electrification that are

for decarbonisation. In his

being developed by his team at the

The presentation emphasized the

view, technology adoption and

University of Adelaide.

need for careful analysis before

sustainability initiatives could be

committing to electrification

undermined by operational changes

Named MOVE (Mining Operation

and the use of precise decision-

when leadership is not consistent.

Vehicle Education), the project

making tools and a comprehensive

aims to develop algorithms and

approach to ensure both cost

tools to help transition mining

efficiency and productivity gains.

CASE STUDY: TOOLS TO DETERMINE THE BEST SOLUTION FOR MINING VEHICLE ELECTRIFICATION

fleets to electric power. MOVE is collaborating with mining companies including BHP (Leinster

SAFEGUARD MECHANISM UPDATES AND NEXT STEPS

Underground Mine, WA) and IGO (Nova Operation, WA) on the development and testing of the tools.

Ali Pourmousavi Kani, Senior

The primary motivation for

Kath Rowley, Head of Emissions

Lecturer, University of Adelaide

electrification in mining is reducing

Reduction Division, Department

the consumption of diesel in

of Climate Change, Energy,

operations, which accounts for

the Environment and Water,

Dr. Ali Pourmousavi Kani serves

Government of Australia

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PAGE 37

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE Kath Rowley, a climate policy leader

emissions and production levels.

transparent process aims to instill

with more than two decades of

This flexible approach aims to

confidence in investors and the

experience, currently heads the

avoid hampering business growth

public regarding emission reduction

Emissions Reduction Division at

while driving emission reductions

efforts.

the Commonwealth Department

across sectors like stationary

of Climate Change. In this

energy, fugitive emissions, and

The presentation also addressed

capacity, she provides guidance

transportation.

concerns about trade-exposed

to the Australian Government on

sectors with high emissions. To

strategies and initiatives aimed at

Rowley pointed out the contrast

mitigate risks, measures have

lowering the country’s greenhouse

between emission reductions

been introduced to support these

gas emissions. She is responsible

achieved in the electricity sector

sectors in their transition to cleaner

for overseeing significant initiatives

versus those in the fast-growing

practices. This includes access to

including the Safeguard Mechanism

sectors mentioned earlier. The

funds for decarbonisation efforts

and Australia’s carbon crediting

Safeguard Mechanism reforms

and flexibility in adjusting baselines

scheme.

specifically target these sectors

for facilities facing substantial

to align with Australia’s emission

compliance costs.

reduction goals.

Looking ahead, the Safeguard

MECHANISM ARE EMISSION LIMITS, KNOWN AS BASELINES, IMPOSED ON MAJOR INDUSTRIAL FACILITIES.

In terms of compliance and

Mechanism reforms are set to

flexibility, facilities emitting below

come into effect on July 1, with

their baselines can generate

compliance obligations starting in

Safeguard Mechanism Credits

early 2025. Ongoing collaboration

(SMCs). These credits can be used

with industries and stakeholders

for future compliance or even sold

is crucial for successful

to other facilities exceeding their

implementation. The government

baselines.

also plans to explore further policy options to address the risk of

“So, it’s a new form of tradable

carbon leakage and the potential

In her presentation, Rowley

credit, and provides an incentive

use of international offsets in the

highlighted the role of national

wherever there are cost effective

future.

policy settings in driving emission

emissions reduction options to take

reductions. The Australian

those up, even if you’re already

government has strengthened its

better than the baseline,” said

2030 emissions reduction target

Rowley of SMCs. “Because if you

to 43% below 2005 levels by 2030

beat your baseline, you get credits

and has committed to achieving

for the difference, and you can sell

net zero emissions by 2050. These

those to others.”

ENERGETICS: DEVELOPING MINING’S SAFEGUARD MECHANISM COMPLIANCE STRATEGY

targets have been enshrined in domestic law to provide stability

The reforms also emphasize

for investors and businesses

accountability and transparency,

transitioning to a low-carbon

with regular reviews of progress

Dave Kazmirowicz, Head

economy.

and increased reporting on facility-

of Emissions Quantification,

level emissions and compliance

Energetics

Central to the Safeguard

activities.

Mechanism are emission limits,

In this presentation, Dave

known as baselines, imposed on

The reforms permit facilities to

Kazmirowicz, Head of Emissions

major industrial facilities.

use Australian Carbon Credit Units

Quantification at Energetics,

(ACCUs) and introduce a cost

discussed the challenges faced

These baselines will now be

containment reserve to manage

by mining companies under

adjusted based on the intensity of

potential compliance costs. This

the Safeguard Mechanism and

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PAGE 38

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE achieving TEBA status requires meeting certain financial factors, and an example by Kazmirowicz

WE KNOW THAT BASELINES ARE GOING TO DECLINE AND WE’RE REALLY EXPECTING A RATE OF DECLINE THAT WON’T ALLOW FACILITIES THE OPTIONALITY TO GET OUT OF THEIR COMPLIANCE OBLIGATIONS offered strategies to prepare for compliance.

The Safeguard Mechanism, implemented in July 2016, has undergone reforms to promote decarbonisation in the mining industry. These reforms have become effective July 1, 2023.

Kazmirowicz emphasized the importance of being proactive in planning for compliance rather than simply reacting to requirements as they arise.

“We know that baselines are going to decline and we’re really expecting a rate of decline that won’t allow facilities the optionality to get out of their compliance obligations,” said Kazmirowicz.

He said the decline in baselines made it essential for facilities to analyse their data and forecast emissions to meet these progressively tighter compliance obligations.

One critical concept mentioned was the Trade Exposed Baseline Adjusted status (TEBA), which can offer significant baseline relief if a facility qualifies. However,

indicated this would perhaps be out

PANEL: SAFEGUARD MECHANISM REFORMS AND IMPACTS FOR MINING

of reach of most mine facilities.

“Even if possible, TEBA status could provide some relief, but mine sites are going to be faced with a choice between reliance on offsetting

Chair: Joel Hextall, Principal

or taking a proactive approach

Consultant, Energetics

to facility decarbonisation,” said Kazmirowicz.

His presentation stressed the significance of decarbonisation efforts where technologically

Sasha Pendal, Group Manager,

mature abatement opportunities

Community & Government

can be immediately implemented,

Engagement, Fortescue Metals

while nascent technologies may

Group

need funding assistance. This funding is expected to be available through the “Powering the Regions” fund for trade-exposed safeguard facilities engaging in decarbonisation efforts.

Jo Garland, Partner, HFW Australia

Offsetting was suggested as a last resort, with a primary focus on emissions reduction and energy efficiency improvements.

However, facilities with limited

Neil van Drunen, Director, WA, SA,

decarbonisation options may

NT & Industry Policy, Association

need to consider offsets. The

of Mining and Exploration

credibility and reputational impact

Companies

of offset procurement should be a central consideration, as the ACCU market’s value is expected to rise due to increased demand.

In conclusion, early planning and action are essential for a robust

Kath Rowley, Head of Emissions

safeguard compliance strategy.

Reduction Division, Department

Prioritizing analysis, facility

of Climate Change, Energy, the

decarbonisation, and treating

Environment and Water

offsets as a backstop can help mining organizations effectively

Joel Hextall opened the proceedings

navigate compliance requirements

with a quote from a previous

and reduce risk.

keynote speaker: “Safeguard Mechanism. Go for it, go for it.”

Hextall also reminded the audience that the reformed Safeguard

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PAGE 39

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE Mechanism was to take effect in 11

said AMEC member-companies

The strategy must consider

business days, and the discussions

faced varying challenges in

the company’s position on the

would, therefore, be timely and

decarbonisation depending on

emissions reduction curve, as well

useful.

whether they had older assets,

as rely on emissions data for its

greenfield sites, or were acquiring

design. Data plays a pivotal role;

mines.

understanding emissions data is

What challenges and or opportunities does the Safeguard

crucial for strategy design.

Mechanism reform represent for

Drunen also remarked that

mining?

AMEC, in its interactions with the

Technological aspects are also

According to Sasha Pendal, one

government, stressed on certainty

important – whether there is

obvious challenge for miners is the

and transparency “so that our

technology on the horizon to

need to swiftly reduce emissions

members can plan and start

aid emissions reduction within

from facilities to stay ahead of the

preparing and getting their data

a certain timeframe. “Say you’re

4.9% annual reduction requirement.

ready.”

looking at a two- or three- year

This requires eliminating direct emissions and using high-quality

WE’VE GOT A REALLY CLEAR VIEW ABOUT WHAT TECHNOLOGIES WILL NOT BE SUSTAINABLE OVER TIME, WHICH LEAD INTO CRITICAL DECISIONS THAT FORTESCUE HAS TAKEN IN RECENT TIMES

lead time into having your new Rowley said in this context: “One

technology up and going to abate

of the benefits of the safeguard

those emissions, then obviously, it’s

reform is that we have now got an

a good idea for you to be applying

architecture that can ratchet over

for this role in five-year average,”

time to net zero by 2050.”

advised Garland.

Both Pendal and Rowley referred

The policy on SMCs and banking or

to the commercial opportunity

trading ACCUs based on baseline

that could accrue from Safeguard

performance would form another

Mechanism incentives for

pillar of the compliance strategy.

decarbonisation. “If you’re the most efficient, you will have the

How do these reforms impact

least compliance obligation and or

current carbon reduction

the greatest access to credit,” said

strategies for facilities?

Rowley.

Sasha Pendal said the new requirements under the

“There’s no doubt that there are

Safeguard Mechanism brought

direct commercial benefits for us

focus, certainty, and the ability

ACCUs (Australian Carbon Credit

from eliminating diesel from our

to plan ahead for organizations.

Units) effectively, when needed.

operating model,” said Pendal.

“Now we have a very, very

“As we look into the future, we see

“And we’re already calculating the

good understanding about the

a point in the market where there

reduction of our usage of diesel,

requirements, we can plan for it,

could be a rush to buy high quality

and building that into our project

and we can invest accordingly. And

ACCUs,” said Pendal. “And we all

economics.”

organizations in our sector are

know that simple laws of supply

incredibly adaptive.”

and demand mean that for us,

What key considerations are

we’ve got to make sure we have

miners including in developing

The clarity from the Safeguard

access to the right number.”

compliance strategies?

Mechanism also allowed

Jo Garland highlighted the key

miners to build a more reliable

Kath Rowley advised miners that

considerations for designing a

decarbonisation pathway into their

it was crucial to understand their

compliance strategy within the

project economics.

own emissions and the related

Safeguard Mechanism. The strategy

abatement strategies.

should aim to mitigate risk, adhere

Rowley reiterated that the

to rules, and manage emissions

Safeguard Mechanism offered

effectively.

incentives for emissions reduction

In a useful insight, Neil Van Drunen

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PAGE 40

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE and therefore miners should think

Sasha Pendal also weighed in on

Industries like cement, mining,

about the reform not just through

diesel, explaining how Fortescue

and coal are affected, and carbon

a compliance lens, but also through

was strategically moving away from

offsets are an option that help meet

an opportunity lens.

unsustainable technologies like

compliance responsibility, as well

What questions and concerns do

diesel haul trucks and diesel-fired

as decarbonisation targets.

companies have around the use

power stations.

of offsets to meet compliance

The speakers also emphasized the

requirements?

“We’ve got a really clear view about

importance of ensuring the quality

At the request of the chair, Kath

what technologies will not be

of carbon offsets and identifying

Rowley provided an overview of

sustainable over time, which lead

reputable projects, particularly

SMCs and ACCUs, and reminded

into critical decisions that Fortescue

those in proximity. They discussed

the audience that “there’ll be

has taken in recent times, for

carbon integrity, which involves

a conversation between the

example, to acquire the company

accurate carbon accounting and

compliance anxiety and economic

AWE, which brings very specific

robust calculations, and monitoring

opportunity” from these incentives.

battery technology, research

to verify project claims.

Rowley highlighted the

development and application of

uncertainty surrounding the use

that technology that we look to pair

“If you had the choice, all things

of international offsets due to

with our next generation of large

held equal, between a project five

unsettled rules for their inclusion

haul fleet,” Pendal said.

kilometres away in your actual

in Australia’s emissions reduction targets.

A future legislative framework for

state, where your stakeholders

MACQUARIE BANK: DEFINING A CARBON OFFSET STRATEGY

really care, where you already have a community group versus, let’s say, another planting project, but in

allowing international offsets in

China, I think it’s pretty clear which

Australia is under consultation.

project would be a better story,” remarks Jun Song.

What technologies and initiatives will enable compliance with new baseline requirements?

Anton Lovelle, Asian Power, Gas &

The discussion covered

Emissions, Macquarie Bank

technology and the challenges

Jun Song, Global Carbon,

of decarbonisation, particularly

Macquarie Bank

in hard-to-abate processes. Kath Rowley detailed various federal policies and programs to support decarbonisation efforts, including

THIS LANDSCAPE WILL GO FROM 1/3 OF THE PROPERTY BURNING EVERY YEAR DOWN TO JUST A 10TH

grants, finance, and early-stage deployment initiatives.

Jun Song, Vice President Global

He presents an example of

Neil Van Drunen highlighted the

Carbon, Macquarie Bank

Macquarie’s participation in a

importance of finding alternatives

Savanna management project

to replace diesel, a significant

Anton Lovelle and Jun Song from

that integrates cattle and land

carbon cost for the smaller

Macquarie Bank discussed carbon

management to reduce emissions

exploration companies. He also

offsets and strategies in their

from wildfires.

mentioned that older mining assets

presentation.

face challenges due to outdated

In this “high-integrity” project,

processing equipment, making

In this context, they explained

successful carbon mitigation can

energy efficiency a crucial focus.

the Safeguard Mechanism and

be determined by comparing the

But “diesel is the number one for

the importance of Australian

yearly burning area to historical

us, that gets discussed by our

Carbon Credit Units (ACCUs) in this

data obtained from satellite

members,” he said.

mechanism.

monitoring.

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PAGE 41

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE challenges for the mining industry.

“This landscape will go from 1/3 of

Helga Nolasco outlined challenges

the property burning every year

in developing carbon projections

down to just a 10th. And we can

for mines, including measuring

establish that because there’s 20

Bryan Williams, Head of

the current footprint, life of mine

years of satellite data going all the

Environment and Climate, IGO

plan, decarbonisation roadmap,

way back to 2001, by six low orbit

Limited

and technological advancements.

satellites hosted and all of that data

Estimating the pace of technological

in Charles Darwin University.”

development and its integration into projections amid price

Regarding accessing carbon

considerations is difficult.

units (ACCUs), the speakers mentioned several approaches, all

Jun Song, Vice President Global

To address these complexities,

accessible through Macquarie: Spot

Carbon, Macquarie Bank

benchmarking through industry

transactions, forward contracts,

consortia and understanding social,

structured products like options

political, and economic trends

and collars, even upstream

in various countries are crucial,

participation, where landowners

particularly when the mine is

can generate carbon credits and

connected to national grids.

receive financial benefits.

Duncan van Bergen, Co-Founder,

Uncertainty in data quality and

Calyx Global

availability, particularly in Scope 3

“I’ll treat an ACCU exactly the same

measurements, further complicates

way that you treat metals, that you

This panel discussed the latest

treat gas, that you treat coal; and

developments in carbon footprint

all the mechanisms that you do to

assessment, risk evaluation,

“For many smaller companies,

hedge those commodities you can

and calculations for the mining

they may have difficulties building

do in ACCUs,” assures Jun Song.

industry as it strives to meet

the business case to maintain a

decarbonisation goals set for 2030

highly complex tool, or a very large

and 2050.

team to develop these projections,

PANEL: CARBON RISK MODELLING AND REPORTING

long-term modelling.

because many times climate change What are some of the challenges of

is seen as a future problem with

carbon forecasting and modelling

future implications,” observed

for mines?

Nolasco.

Mining companies are facing heightened stakeholder

Bryan Williams added practical

scrutiny due to net zero targets,

insights, highlighting the rapid

Chair: Ben Jarvis, Strategy Manager

necessitating clear plans for

changes in energy and emissions

- Renewables & Decarbonisation,

meeting these goals.

patterns. Furthermore, mining

Advisian

“Carbon forecasting and modeling

operations in various stages, joint

is a critical step to developing

ventures, and transitioning to

credible and achievable emissions

renewables all contribute to shifting

pathways,” said Ben Jarvis. “But

emission projections. Forecasting

it’s a complex process.” It lacks

is complicated by factors such

established guidelines, leading

as hybrid renewable solutions,

Helga Nolasco, Climate &

to the “garbage in, garbage out”

electrifying fleets, and working with

Sustainability Analyst, MMG

phenomenon in modelling. The

partners across varied commodities

integrity of carbon footprints,

and businesses. Effective

projection models, reporting,

communication and collaboration

performance, and the use of carbon

among departments is therefore

offsets therefore pose major

essential for accurate forecasts.

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PAGE 42

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE Establishing sustainability working

carbon credits: “Please make sure

groups helps align efforts and

you use carbon credits that have

improve emission estimations.

real impact, because the reality

Ben Jarvis underscored the

of the market is that it spans the

strategies.

CARBON FORECASTING AND MODELING IS A CRITICAL STEP TO DEVELOPING CREDIBLE AND ACHIEVABLE EMISSIONS PATHWAYS

Absolute versus emissions intensity

around $10 million per year in a

point on the potential role of

- what to measure, how to measure

decarbonisation fund. This fund

offsets in marginal abatement

it and managing the challenge of

is used to implement projects

cost calculations. If the cost of

having no common denominators

that might not otherwise be

offsets is competitive with the cost

for emissions intensity across

pursued, engaging the workforce

of abatement within operations,

mining portfolios

and harnessing their passion for

offsets could serve as an attractive

Jun Song discussed the distinction

sustainability.

interim solution. He also added that

importance of quality data for accurate reporting. Timely access to data and attention to detail in reporting units are crucial for successful emission reduction

between absolute and intensity

whole width from carbon credits that actually do what it says on the cover…and credits that are absolute junk for lack of a better word, that don’t do anything at all.”

Jun Song made an interesting

offsets can be a complementary

targets, emphasizing that the two

Helga Nolasco suggested starting

part of a climate action strategy,

were not in opposition but rather

with a shadow carbon price,

especially in cases where

served different purposes. In an

building awareness and culture

operational emissions reduction is

Australian context, facilities must

before eventually transitioning it

a very complex process.

adhere to absolute emissions

into a carbon tax.

How do carbon offsets fit with

requirements under the safeguard mechanism if they qualify. Absolute

Ben Jarvis emphasizes the evolving

carbon regulation requirements

emissions act as a key performance

nature of carbon accounting and

and/or voluntary markets in major

indicator for compliance and

the importance of treating it on

mining jurisdictions?

reporting, while intensity aids in

par with financial accounting or

On the evolution of the voluntary

relative performance assessment.

occupational safety and health – an

carbon market and its relation

Jun advised against viewing them

essential aspect of the business

to government regulations, Jun

as better or worse; instead, they

that requires due attention.

Song observed that the voluntary

are complementary metrics for

market served as an interim When and how should carbon

measure for private entities

offsets be used to reach

awaiting government direction on

greenhouse gas emission goals for

climate action. However, as more

mining companies and how can

jurisdictions aligned with the Paris

mines verify the quality of those

Agreement and set clear emission

Bryan Williams said IGO is engaging

offsets?

reduction goals, the voluntary

with external experts to update

Duncan van Bergen emphasized

market’s role would become

their Task Force on Climate-related

that the purpose of carbon offsets

clearer.

Financial Disclosures (TCFD)

is to accelerate emission reduction,

disclosures for their sustainability

not merely to satisfy compliance. “A

Duncan van Bergen suggested

report. They are focusing on

carbon offsetting plan does not a

that the voluntary and compliance

assessing physical risks, running

climate action plan make,” he said.

markets would coexist and

scenario analysis, and enhancing

The world cannot offset its way out

complement each other. He noted

adaptation plans for long-term

of climate change, and all the hard

that advanced jurisdictions like the

climate change resilience. They

work around reducing operational

EU, California, China, and Canada

have an internal carbon price

emissions still needs to happen.

have a mix of obligatory and

of $60 per tonne, accumulating

Bergen also cautioned on the use of

voluntary actions.

different goals.

What are current best practices for understanding carbon risk, and its financial impacts?

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PAGE 43

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE Bergen also pointed to a dichotomy

What additional policy mechanisms

‘core competencies’ could lead to

where a higher level of voluntary

will enable mining companies

commercial revenue opportunities

action is observed in countries with

to achieve the levels of carbon

for miners beyond compliance or

stronger regulatory obligations. “In

reduction needed to meet 2030 and

cost mitigation.

those countries where there is the

2050 net zero targets

most obligation to do something,

Duncan van Bergen addressed the

Duncan Van Bergen drew a parallel

the companies that are caught

future outlook for climate policy

between the benefits of improving

by those obligations are actually

and its implications. He believes

safety performance (HSE) and the

seeing the benefits of doing it, the

that the future will likely involve

potential advantages of working on

operational benefits of monitoring

both more incentives (carrots)

sustainability action plans. “By now,

and taking action about emissions,”

and more regulatory measures

I hope a lot of companies realize

he explained.

(sticks) to drive climate action. He

that increasing safety performance

anticipates an era of increased

is actually something that

What sort of systems need to be

policy intervention to align with

translates directly into superior

in place to track emissions and

global climate goals. The European

financial performance. That’s been

carbon exposure?

carbon border adjustment

proven over and over again - you

At MMG, Helga Nolasco said they

mechanism is an example of a

do better on safety, the financial

were transitioning from Excel-based

regulatory stick that could be

results tend to follow. I think you’ll

calculations to more robust carbon

implemented in more jurisdictions.

see the same in terms of how hard

management systems, and replacing

Duncan also emphasized the need

you work on your sustainability

outdated software with new

for companies to stay informed

action plans.”

analytical tools that offer automatic

and prepared for policy changes,

data capture and reporting. The

as these ‘knee-jerks’ may happen in

move is part of a proactive approach

response to sudden climate events.

to greenhouse gas tracking

MORROW SODALI: WHAT ARE MINING INVESTORS THINKING ABOUT CLIMATE TARGETS AND DECARBONISATION?

and emissions reporting. Helga

How can mining companies move

recommended creating a climate

ahead with the compliance and

and carbon data roadmap that

the footprint and the risk and the

aligned functional requirements

reporting, but also look forward

with the decarbonisation strategy.

to carbon as a commodity and get

This transition allowed for more

ready to play in the global carbon

accurate, frequent, and error-free

market?

reporting.

Jun Song identified two main

Justin Grogan, Senior Managing

opportunities for miners in the

Director, Corporate Governance &

Bryan Williams shared a similar

context of carbon participation.

Sustainability APAC, Morrow Sodali

journey in his company’s move

Firstly, as the world accelerates its

from Excel-based systems to

climate transition, higher standards

The presentation by Justin

more advanced databases for

will emerge, and the quality and

Grogan, Senior Managing Director

carbon data and ESG metrics.

carbon intensity of materials will

of Corporate Governance and

He highlighted the importance

become crucial criteria for end

Sustainability for Asia Pacific at

of adopting systems that can

users. This presents a chance

Morrow Sodali, focused on how

accommodate various ESG

for miners to become preferred

mining investors are considering

components beyond carbon

suppliers.

climate targets and decarbonisation

emissions, including biodiversity

in the context of Environmental,

and natural capital. Williams also

Secondly, miners possess

Social, and Governance (ESG)

addressed the challenge of Scope 3

transferable skills applicable

norms.

emissions reporting and the need

to carbon projects, such as

to establish strong relationships

managing project uncertainty,

Grogan explained the difference

with suppliers for accurate data

raising capital and managing

between ESG and sustainability,

collection.

landowner relationships. These

emphasizing ESG as a broad

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PAGE 44

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE framework that assesses a company’s Environmental, Social, and Governance aspects for longterm viability.

The presentation delved into the complex ESG ecosystem, covering frameworks, rating agencies, proxy advisors, and associations influencing company disclosures and investor decisions.

Grogan also discussed the growing significance of ESG reporting and disclosures in the mining industry, driven by shareholder activism, regulatory pressures, and institutional investor demands. He observed that last year, activists

GROGAN ALSO DISCUSSED THE GROWING SIGNIFICANCE OF ESG REPORTING AND DISCLOSURES IN THE MINING INDUSTRY, DRIVEN

BY SHAREHOLDER ACTIVISM, REGULATORY PRESSURES, AND INSTITUTIONAL INVESTOR DEMANDS

Sean Richardson, Managing Director, Empire Resources

David Kelly, Non-Executive Director, Westgold In recent years, the ESG framework has emerged as an imperative for the mining industry, encompassing many more deliverables than decarbonisation.

lodged 34 ESG resolutions across 14 different companies in the ASX 300, with many of them focused on climate.

support.

PANEL: DEMYSTIFYING ESG FOR MINING

In South Africa, a gold miner’s revolving credit facility is linked to the company’s achievement of ESG targets including women

For this reason, Grogan says it’s

representation, use of recycled

important to take “a beneficial trace

water, and an abatement in Scope 1

of the company’s share register to

and 2 carbon emissions.

determine who is sitting behind that and what the influences are.”

This panel discussed many practical

“You need to understand the

Chair: Brendan Tapley, Director

aspects of ESG as applicable to

evolving policy approach of

Sustainability and Climate Change,

mining.

the proxy advisors and their

PwC

expectations,” says Grogan. “These

Key drivers around decarbonisation

proxy advisors increasingly focus

and ESG

on ensuring that the boards have

Luke Gleeson noted that ESG had

the requisite skills and expertise

become increasingly important in

represented, particularly when

recent years, and especially came

it’s related to climate change, and

Luke Gleeson, Chief Sustainability

into the limelight during and after

human rights issues.”

Officer and Head of Corporate

the COVID-19 pandemic.

Development, Bellevue Gold

In mining, ESG is a significant focus:

It is also necessary to comply with

“I sit on the Denver Gold Group

global reporting standards and

as an independent director. And

satisfy investor expectations to

it’s their number one concern and

access capital effectively.

focus, but particularly for the gold

The takeaway for energy

industry,” said Gleeson.

and mining companies is the importance of embracing ESG as

He suggested that while reporting

an integral part of doing business

Erica Lampropoulos, Director,

frameworks have varied, having

and communicating their role in the

Pollination

standardized guidelines from

energy transition to gain investor

authoritative bodies like the AASB

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PAGE 45

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE would be valuable for businesses

we’re pretty proud of.”

given the complexities and time-

of building a solar farm impacting the local climate and agriculture

consuming nature of dealing with

The average age of employees at

industry, that showed how

ESG assessments.

Bellevue is 38, and last year, the

collaborative efforts are crucial for

company achieved a 50% gender

achieving nature and biodiversity

diversity ratio.

targets alongside renewable energy

Reporting challenges for a smallcap miner

goals.

Sean Richardson, representing

On gender in the workforce

a junior explorer, discussed the

David Kelly expressed strong

Brendan Tapley advised that

unique challenges it faced in the

support for diversity and inclusion

the Nature Repair Market Bill,

context of ESG and reporting

within the mining industry. He

introduced in March, proposes a

standards considering the small

emphasised the necessity of a

credit system similar to carbon

size of the company.

diverse workforce to maintain the

markets for biodiversity. This

required skills and expertise for

regulation could allow projects like

Manpower was becoming a concern,

modern mining operations.

renewable energy on land to earn

according to Richardson. “One of

“If you only want to extract

biodiversity credits for regeneration

the challenges that we’re faced with

employees from one gender, you’re

efforts, bridging the gap between

is attracting people to the business

not going to do very well,” Kelly

different environmental and

when we’ve got small teams, very,

said. “There’s a business imperative

economic goals.

very tight budgets and not a lot of

that I don’t think anyone can

sex appeal to the (ESG) story.”

deny, to broaden the diversity of

Despite these limitations, he

ESG issues that can arise in

employees, both from a gender and

multiple jurisdictions

a background perspective.”

The discussion focused on the

emphasised the importance of

variations in ESG issues across

addressing ESG concerns and

different regions and jurisdictions.

aligning with reporting frameworks.

Brendan Tapley acknowledged

“Exploration companies, by their

the diverse priorities that arise,

very nature, are small, and we’re trying to achieve targets that are a big picture.”

Benefits from ESG for miners The experience at Bellevue, however, has been quite the reverse. “When we actually flipped from that exploration development pathway, one of the things we

WE WANT PEOPLE IN THE INDUSTRY WHO HAVE A PASSION FOR DEVELOPING MINERALS AND THE BENEFITS THAT THEY BRING TO SOCIETY AND NOT GET CAUGHT UP IN THE PAST.

even within the same company’s operations in various locations, ranging from regional Australia to developing countries.

David Kelly, drawing from his experience in Africa, observed that ESG concerns differ depending on the local context. He noted that in his time working in impoverished

actually wanted to do was create a

regions of Africa, issues such as

competitive advantage out of ESG,”

employment, education, housing, Addressing biodiversity

sanitation, and water were of

Erica Lampropoulos explained

higher priority compared to

And that approach certainly

her role and the relevance of

decarbonisation.

worked with manning, because

biodiversity within her work. She

now, the company counts its ability

emphasized the interconnectedness

“It’s not their fault. It’s a first

to employ people as a “tangible”

of various teams, such as

world generated problem and the

benefit of ESG.

decarbonisation, environment,

solutions have to be created in the

sustainability, and native title, when

first world because, frankly, we

“People are kicking the door down

implementing projects.

created the problem.”

to come and work at Bellevue,” said

Lampropoulos cited the example

remarked Luke Gleeson.

Gleeson. “And that’s something that

ESG Risks

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PAGE 46

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE In this discussion, the panel

communities, and landholders

Erica Lampropoulos shared an

focused on the risks associated

is essential in the exploration

example of a friend’s experience at

with setting ESG targets and

phase to ensure better outcomes

Shell in Europe, where the company

sustainability claims. Luke Gleeson

throughout the project’s

is struggling to attract graduates

acknowledged that while ESG

development.

due to environmental concerns.

targets are necessary, they come

Sean Richardson said the mining

with potential risks, particularly

Financing around ESG

industry needs to shift its image

when they require significant

Erica Lampropoulos highlighted

from being seen as dirty and

capital expenditure (capex) for

the role of banks as stakeholders

environmentally unfriendly, and

implementation, which might

who are concerned about their

instead, promote its commitment to

impact smaller companies more

reputation and encourage mining

sustainability and the benefits that

significantly.

companies to address climate,

it can bring to society.

nature, and biodiversity-related Brendan Tapley added that

risks. She suggested that mining

“We want people in the industry

internal carbon pricing could

companies should start collecting

who have a passion for developing

work as a strategy for managing

relevant data and engaging

minerals and the benefits that they

sustainability costs within the

with banks to understand the

bring to society and not get caught

business. “They’re building a five-

implications of future funding

up in the past.”

stage decarbonisation framework

decisions.

where you can sort of nurse an

“Stubby, shorts-wearing, drinking

internal carbon price through

Brendan Tapley advised on the

miners? Not any more, it’s a

from pre-feasibility on a project

upcoming release of the TNFD (Task

different industry going forward.

through to feasibility and then

Force on Nature-related Financial

Definitely.”

implementation.”

Disclosures) draft standard in Australia and New Zealand,

Engagement with First Nations

which could provide guidance for

Erica Lampropoulos said the mining

investments related to nature-

industry is transitioning from

related risks. According to Erica,

outdated heritage or legislation-

the Australian Government’s

driven approaches to a more

support for TNFD underscored

integrated and collaborative

the importance of considering

approach with indigenous groups.

nature-related risks in business

“The way we’re developing some

operations.

STATE OF PLAY: WHAT DOES MINING NEED FOR NET ZERO?

Graeme Stanway, Founder, State Of Play

of our projects, they are in partnership with traditional owner

David Kelly remarked that banks’

groups where they are the majority

implementation of ESG standards

In this presentation, Graham

shareholders in the project,” said

had contributed to raising the overall

Stanway, founder of State of Play,

Lampropoulos.

bar of environmental and social

discussed the challenges facing

responsibility in the mining industry.

the mining industry in its drive to

She emphasized the benefits of

The workforce and ESG

achieve a net zero carbon footprint.

involving First Nations groups

David Kelly mentioned a recent

The energy transition has

from the outset of a project and

materiality assessment at

arrived, says Stanway, noting

integrating technical development,

Westgold, which revealed that

that investments in the space

approvals, and native title

decarbonisation and creating a

are up 40 times since 2004, and

considerations for better execution

safe and supportive workplace

35% of Australia’s total electricity

and building of trust.

for women were top concerns,

generation now comes from

reflecting the changing priorities of

renewable energy (doubled since

Sean Richardson echoed that

a new generation of employees who

2017).

view, saying early engagement

care deeply about sustainability

with indigenous groups, local

and workplace inclusivity.

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PAGE 47

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE Furthermore, miners have to

achieving net zero emissions.

bite the bullet and develop new

STANWAY IDENTIFIED FOUR CRITICAL AREAS FOR ACHIEVING NET ZERO IN MINING: ENERGY SUPPLY, INGESTION OF CLEAN ENERGY INTO EQUIPMENT AND PROCESSING, NEW MINE DESIGNS, AND NEW MODES OF OPERATION. However, is the mining industry keeping pace?

“I’d say that there’s some concern about that, that we need to change the game,” says Stanway. “The actual rate of change internally in the industry isn’t commensurate with the energy change externally and the pressures that are on us.”

Stanway identified four critical areas for achieving net zero in mining: energy supply, ingestion of clean energy into equipment and processing, new mine designs, and

mine designs that are crucial

VSUN Energy is a subsidiary of

for electrification. According to

Australian Vanadium Limited,

Stanway, a survey by his firm

an ASX-listed company with a

showed that the mining industry is

vertical integrated strategy. AVL is

extremely conservative with respect

developing a vanadium mine near

to asset design. He urged miners

Meekatharra and a processing

to reduce risk and improve project

facility in Geraldton, Western

delivery by using more simulation

Australia, to support the growth in

technology.

energy storage demand through the supply of Vanadium Redox Flow

Operationally, future mining will also see increased adoption of robotics, automation, AI, and data

The VRFB process involves using

management, as a whole bunch

vanadium electrolyte, primarily

of new technologies converge,

water, sulfuric acid, and high-purity

transforming the way mines are

vanadium. The electrolyte, a key

currently operated.

component of the technology, doesn’t degrade, making it easy to

In conclusion, Stanway urged the

scale and reducing capital costs.

mining industry to embrace a step-

The benefits of the technology

change approach to achieve net

include long asset life, non-

zero emissions and emphasized

flammability, minimal degradation,

the importance of collaboration,

and recyclability.

research, and policy support to transition towards a sustainable

Sumich also provided an indicative

future.

pricing for a 10MW/80Mwh VRFB. VRFB technology has been

LDES TECHNOLOGY FOCUS: VANADIUM FLOW STORAGE

implementation. Here, in Australia, it’s a different story – “people are

regarding long duration energy

connections.

Stanway called for more investment in technology and development, along with addressing issues related to cost, regulation, and supply of electric vehicles for bridging the divide between renewable energy and its transition into fossil-driven equipment and processing.

and deployed at a gigawatt vanadium production supports its

In energy supply, challenges exist

processes for renewables and grid

successfully commercialized scale in China, where local

new modes of operation.

supply and the cumbersome

Batteries (VRFB).

racing to be second,” in Sumich’s Zamien Sumich, Business

words.

Development Manager, VSUN Energy

“We’ve got a commercialized solution. We’ve got a product that’s

In this presentation, Zamien

been proven. It’s gone through its

Sumich, Business Development

R&D phases and been deployed

Manager, VSUN Energy, discussed

at gigawatt scale. There’s nothing

the emerging technology focus on

stopping motivated parties from

vanadium flow storage for long-

being able to deploy these systems

duration energy storage (LDES).

right now.”

He highlighted the challenges of economically delivering constant

“The larger miners have the view

energy output for extended periods

and the ability to view a product

as mines confront tight targets for

that can sit there and work and

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PAGE 48

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE operate for 20, 30, 40 years, and do

and discharging processes are

is competitive and expected to

what they need to do in reducing

decoupled, allowing for continuous

further decrease as the technology

their carbon emissions. They’re the

energy exports and intermittent

advances.

ones that need to start driving this

charging, whenever needed, to

forward. So, we’re able to perform

optimize energy utilization.

Funding and support for the

that mechanism of reduction in

technology’s development

CO2 emissions right now.”

came from partnerships with

MGA THERMAL: CLEAN STEAM – LDES TECHNOLOGY FOCUS – THERMAL STORAGE

Mark Croudace, Deputy CEO and Chief Commercial Officer, MGA Thermal

organizations like ARENA and Shell Global, which also

IT’S A VERY ‘SHOW ME, DON’T TELL ME’ INDUSTRY. SO RATHER THAN WAITING FOR A CLIENT TO COMMISSION A PILOT, WE’VE COMMISSIONED OUR OWN.

provides technical expertise and commercialization support.

ENERGY VAULT: LDES TECHNOLOGY FOCUS – GRAVITATIONAL/ MECHANICAL STORAGE

MGA Thermal is based in Australia

The MGA blocks, made of a graphite

and focuses on industrial

composite with dispersed metal

Lucas Sadler, VP of Sales and

decarbonisation solutions aligned

alloy particles, have significantly

Business Development, Energy Vault

with United Nations Sustainable

higher energy density than

Development Goals. Mark

traditional thermal storage

Energy Vault develops and deploys

Croudace, Deputy CEO and Chief

materials. The blocks can store

utility-scale energy storage

Commercial Officer presented the

energy from various sources, such

solutions focused on sustainability.

company’s thermal energy storage

as solar PV farms, concentrated

The company’s offerings include

technology at the Energy and Mines

solar power, wind turbines, or

proprietary gravity, battery, and

LDES Technology Focus session.

industrial processes. The system

green hydrogen energy storage

MGA’s technology utilizes modular

is designed to support clean and

hardware technologies.

block-based systems that enable

decarbonised steam applications

the storage of renewable energy,

within the temperature range of

The company’s gravity-based,

allowing intermittent renewable

150 to 650 degrees Celsius.

mechanically-operated energy

sources to function as baseload

storage solution (GESS), which uses

power for clean and decarbonised

Croudace on the mining industry’s

mobile masses weighing 25-30 tons

steam production. The system

response to this technology: “One

to store and dispatch energy from

features high energy density and

of the things about the mining

clean sources, is good for long

has a smaller site footprint, making

industry that has come through

duration energy storage ranging

it cost-effective and suitable for

today and yesterday was around

from 4 – 12 hours.

retrofitting brownfield sites where

conservatism. It’s a very ‘show

space on the ground may be

me, don’t tell me’ industry. So

The company follows a circular

limited.

rather than waiting for a client

economy approach by sequestering

to commission a pilot, we’ve

locally-sourced, reclaimed materials

commissioned our own.”

like coal ash, wind blade landfills

The thermal energy storage system operates through a phase change

(banned in Europe), construction

process, providing a constant input

The company has built a five-

debris, and mine tailings into the

of steam at a specific temperature

megawatt hour demonstrator unit

mobile masses in its gravity system.

and pressure for baseload

and is close to commercialization.

Furthermore, it has a 35-year asset

energy supply. The charging

The system’s levelized cost of heat

life and most of the mechanical

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PAGE 49

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE components of the gravity system can be fabricated locally.

“You can cycle the battery two, three times a day without any expense to degradation, because

CLEANTECH GEOMECHANICS AUSTRALIA: LDES TECHNOLOGY FOCUS – COMPRESSED AND LIQUIFIED GASES

it’s mechanical, so you just simply increase your running costs,” adds Sadler.

The company is on track to soon

Cameron Manifold, Managing

complete its gravity storage project

Director, CleanTech Geomechanics

near Shanghai in Rudong, China.

Australia

Scheduled to commission in 2Q23,

THE SYSTEM’S SCALABILITY DEPENDS ON THE NUMBER OF WELLS INSTALLED, MAKING IT COSTEFFECTIVE WITH LARGER SETUPS to that thermal energy storage to enhance our overall efficiency.”

it will be the first commercialized

Cameron Manifold, Managing

GESS project in the world, providing

Director, CleanTech Geomechanics

WellStor’s applications include

25 MW/100 MWh. The system is

Australia, presented the WellStor

supporting excess renewable

expected to deliver a round-trip

A-CAES technology as an LDES

energy, electrification of vehicles

efficiency in the mid-80’s.

solution.

at mine sites, and deployment in remote and regional areas where

“We have also validated a further

WellStor is a CAES (Compressed

the company’s drilling rig can

2 GWh worth of gravity batteries

Air Energy Storage) system that

be used. The leased rig, the first

in the China Mongolia renewable

uses excess renewable energy to

fully automated drilling rig to be

energy zone,” reveals Sadler. “So,

compress and store air at ultra-

operating in Australia, has been

even though we haven’t reached

high-pressure in physical steel

used for drilling multiple wells in

mechanical completion of the

casing strings installed as part of

Western Australia for the oil and

first one there near Shanghai, the

a well battery. When renewable

gas sector over the past 10 years.

Chinese government has launched

energy is not available, the stored

“We have the capacity, using

the second build.”

air can be depressurized through

existing oil and gas resources,

an expander turbine system to

capabilities, and skills to be able

generate power.

to do these wells in a very cost-

The company also integrates other technologies in the energy

effective manner,” says Cameron.

solutions offered to various types

The technology is based on proven

Furthermore, the well battery

of customers across the globe, in

principles from the oil and gas

is modular, allowing for easy

different contract formats.

sector and can be applied in

maintenance and decommissioning

Its VaultOS Energy Management

brownfield or greenfield locations

at the end of use.

Software, described as “asset

with suitable geology. The system’s

agnostic,” features modular and

scalability depends on the number

CleanTech Geomechanics Australia

flexible architecture that can

of wells installed, making it cost-

aims to conduct a pilot project to

implement and integrate any

effective with larger setups.

validate the technology’s potential,

combination of assets across

and the project size will depend

all the three solution layers of

“A critical element of our storage

on the preferred use case of the

applications, storage technology,

system and our total system

mining partner.

and generation technology.

efficiency is the capacity to store the heat, which comes from the

The company is seeking initial

compression of the air, which is

stage investment partners and

up to around 250 degrees C,” said

is in discussions with the EMC

Cameron. “We expect that we will

Consortium for possible installation

be working with other technology

of an initial proof of concept pilot

providers to find optimum solutions

plant.

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PAGE 50

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE INTERACTIVE DISCUSSION WITH MINING AND ENERGY LEADERS

TECHNOLOGY PROVIDERS:

Carolyn Hartmann, Suresh Sakar, David Manning, and Ray Chatfield, discussed crucial site aspects for LDES solutions.

Carolyn emphasized value,

Chair: Mitchell Burt, Practice

Lucas Sadler, VP of Sales and

technical fit, and site compatibility,

Business Development, Energy

highlighting energy capacity and

Vault [GRAVITY STORAGE]

renewable alignment. “A really

Lead Decarbonisation Technology,

good example of this is our alumina

South32

refineries, which are high process heat applications,” she said. “So, there’s natural synergies with thermal energy storage solutions.”

Suresh Sakar, Engineering and

Mark Croudace, Deputy CEO and

Suresh stressed reliability for

Chief Commercial Officer, MGA

mining, especially in remote

Thermal [THERMAL STORAGE]

areas, considering power outage

Technology Manager, Iluka

consequences and hybrid setups.

Resources

“For us, the most important consideration is ease of installation, and the ability to interface with different energy sources,” observed

Carolyn Hartmann, Senior

Cameron Manifold, Managing

David. “And in particular, more and

Director, CleanTech Geomechanics

more interfacing with different

Australia [COMPRESSED AIR]

control systems.”

Electrical Engineer, Gove Ray emphasized energy use in

Operations, Rio Tinto

aluminium foundries, advocating electrification, storage, and grid stability to manage intermittency Zamien Sumich, Business

and optimize power consumption.

Development Manager, VSUN David Manning, Managing Director,

[BESS-VANADIUM FLOW STORAGE]

What is the ease of relocation and re-establishment at a different

JUWI Australia In this Q&A session, leaders from

mine site so that we can get the

mining and energy offered their

full lifecycle of the asset?

feedback and questions to the LDES

Zamien Sumich of VSUN highlighted

technology suppliers.

the simplicity of redeployment of vanadium flow batteries (VRFB).

Ray Chatfield, Global Technical

The goal of the discussion:

“It’s just the decommissioning

Manager Refining Energy, Alcoa

To comprehend how these

processes, pumping out electrolyte,

technologies can be utilized and

taking the container and shifting

accessed in the context of 2030

it to where you need to go… and

plans for reducing emissions.

pumping it back in when you get to the next location.”

When it comes to energy storage for your sites or projects,

Cameron Manifold from Cleantech

what are the most important

Geomechanics said the company

considerations?

had modularized their compressed

The panel participants, including

air storage system considering

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PAGE 51

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE operability and easy relocation

VRFB and scalability. Is it as simple

after decommissioning. “In terms

as adding more electrolyte? Or is

of the well battery, we recover the

there a lot more to it, as you scale

wellheads, cap the system, and it’s

up the storage?

basically decommissioned.”

Zamien Sumich of VSUN: “I’ll say yes, it is that simple. It literally is

Mark Croudace said MGA Thermal

adding tanks on to extend duration,

customized thermal storage

and adding power electronics and

solutions for different mine sites

cell stacks to increase the power

and noted that feasibility of

output. I see our technology as

relocation depended on use case

really well placed to be able to

similarities.

provide that ramp up.”

Lucas Sadler from Energy Vault said

Integration into brownfield sites

their gravity-based solution, which

is becoming a critical aspect of

had a 30-year lifespan, offered

renewable energy solutions. What

transportable hydrogen and battery

do you feel is the best integration

components.

strategy and how to manage the challenges of installation, given

OUR SUPPLY CHAIN IS ALREADY IN PLACE. WE’RE LOOKING AT USING SURPLUS EXCESS EQUIPMENT TO ACCELERATE THE LEAD TIMES FOR THE PILOT PLANT. Zamien Sumich from VSUN: Be conscious of the complexities of integration and prepare beforehand even though we deliver products that are commercialized and proven.

How does your system manage the

the very high performance and

challenges of lack of inertia and

reliability requirements of today’s

stability in a grid at really high

mine sites?

renewable energy fractions?

In this portion of the discussion,

Lucas Sadler: “The benefit of gravity

participants shared insights

is that it’s mechanical. So, it’s using

about integrating energy storage

VFDs, and motors, and can provide

technologies into brownfield sites.

lifting structures and equipment

Mark Croudace of MGA Thermal

Mark Croudace of MGA Thermal:

of what the maintenance program

estimated that coupling the system

Collaborate closely with the mine’s

with a cogeneration facility would

experienced operations and

introduce synchronous generation

engineering teams and provide the

benefits from turbine inertia.

right technical support.

In the Australian context, what do

Lucas Sadler from Energy Vault:

you see as the best application for

Deploy Energy Vault’s energy

your technology?

management software that has a

Cameron Manifold from Cleantech

very flexible and sensible scoping

Geomechanics: “I think the best

mechanism to be able to work

application for us is the potential

out what the role is in the mine’s

to integrate fully renewable power

current plan.

mechanical system inertia as well.”

for a group of miners in a common location using a mini grid system. I

Cameron Manifold of Cleantech

think we can do it for larger miners

Geomechanics: Model your

with their own power systems. But I

system to marry to the existing

think that is an opportunity to help

systems that are there; develop an

the smaller mid-tier miners get to

effective monitoring, maintenance,

their ambitions a lot faster using

preventative maintenance program

that technology.”

and the ability to do full scale maintenance.

On gravity storage: Can you talk us through some of the statutory maintenance requirements specifically associated with the and also give us an understanding is going to look like?

Lucas Sadler from Energy Vault explained that the building housing the system is sealed and clad to prevent foreign objects from entering. Furthermore, the lifting technology and equipment, such as ropes, motors, and sensors, are standard supply chain components, making maintenance relatively straightforward. In fact, these mechanical skills may already be available on the mining site.

However, regular inspections are needed, estimated to be around once a year, with potential equipment changes once or twice over the system’s life, depending on cycling frequency.

What should mining companies be doing to enable the uptake of LDES

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PAGE 52

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE technologies to achieve net zero mining?

Zamien Sumich from VSUN: “Start buying something! For us to be able

FIRST MODE: DISPLACING DIESEL WITH HYDROGENPOWERED TRUCKS

hydrogen power plant during the COVID pandemic using mostly off-the-shelf components. They then successfully integrated

to increase the capacity to deliver

the hydrogen powertrain into a

in this market, we need to start that

mining truck and demonstrated its

ball rolling now. Mining players that

capability to move heavy payloads

are late to the party will miss out.

at speed in South Africa where the

There’s huge demand pending. And

Julian Soles, CEO, First Mode

there’s insufficient supply.”

DMV assisted with risk management and safety considerations.

Julian Soles, CEO of First Mode,

First Mode even built a 3 MW

Mark Croudace of MGA Thermal

presented an account of how the

electrolyser to ensure the supply of

suggests that the mining industry

company engineered a battery fuel

hydrogen for the vehicle.

might face competition from other

cell haul truck for use in mines in

sectors like oil and gas that are

replacement of diesel-powered

“But the biggest thing, the thing

moving faster in adopting energy

machines.

that got the engineers super

storage solutions. He too warned

excited, was it felt just like a

against being too conservative and

The project started as a proof of

diesel truck,” says Soles in his

missing out on opportunities due to

concept in 2019, in association with

presentation. “It was the first

potential demand exceeding supply.

Anglo American. First Mode settled

comment that they got when a

on a hybrid hydrogen solution

driver got in, and these are people

Cameron Manifold of Cleantech

for the mining trucks due to its

that have been driving these trucks

Geomechanics: “Our supply chain

feasibility and economics.

for 20 years!”

is already in place. We’re looking at using surplus excess equipment

First Mode is now working on

to accelerate the lead times for the

NuGen, an ecosystem for zero-

pilot plant. The current hurdle for

emission haulage, including

us is to get a commitment to an appropriate use case supported by parties who have an interest in this particular technology.”

The timeline for net zero targets is short and considering all

FIRST MODE EVEN BUILT A 3 MW ELECTROLYSER TO ENSURE THE SUPPLY OF HYDROGEN FOR THE VEHICLE.

the technology integration and

hydrogen sourcing, fleet integration, and a refueling system.

“The reason for that is we want to deliver a solution where we don’t come to the customer and say, hey, we’ve got this truck, the rest of it’s your problem,” said Soles. “It’s not, it’s our problem, because it

technology development that needs

Soles took the audience through

doesn’t work without the rest of the

to happen, what are the immediate

the journey of the world’s largest

system.”

next steps that mining companies

zero-emission haul truck from

should take to understand the

concept stage to its successful

In Q2 of 2025, First Mode plans

potential of LDES technologies?

deployment at a South African mine

to demonstrate a minimum viable

“Act now, we have to do something

site.

system with two ultra-class trucks

now. We need to work out a way

running on liquid hydrogen and

of being quicker, making decisions

His presentation covered concept

an integrated fleet management

faster, and getting these feed

study, engineering design, the

system.

studies done. They need to be done

prototype, final assembly and

– I don’t dispute that as we need to

testing, and lastly, operating the

By mid-2025, they aim to have a

have a good understanding of what

truck on site.

commercial solution operational on

we’re doing. But the timeline is just too long at the moment.”

a mining site.

First Mode built a test facility at a Seattle warehouse and built the

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PAGE 53

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE PANEL: MAKING HYDROGEN VIABLE FOR WA MINES

Green hydrogen shows great

OEM, echoed Zoe on the need to

potential for lowering carbon

evaluate specific applications within

emissions in energy and

mining and processing. “Some of

transportation for mines that

those applications will make a lot of

have onsite renewables. As mining

sense for hydrogen today, some will

companies pursue renewable

make no sense ever.”

projects in the Pilbara, green Chair: Adrienne LaBombard,

hydrogen’s role in facilitating

Furthermore, Ewan said his

Director of Policy and Advocacy,

carbon-neutral mining assumes

company focused on reducing the

The Chamber of Minerals and

significance. In this panel, experts

levelized cost of hydrogen through

Energy of Western Australia

in mining and hydrogen discussed

technological advancements,

key steps and insights from ongoing

scaling up electrolyzers to as much

projects to make hydrogen viable

as 100 MW, maximizing current

for local mines.

densities, and boosting electrolyzer efficiency in terms of kilowatt hours

Why is green hydrogen not yet a

per kilogram of hydrogen.

Justin Pitts, Director, Blue

perfect match for local mining

Diamond Machinery

operations? And what would make

Julian Soles underlined the urgency

it viable?

of action to drive down hydrogen

According to Russell James, the

costs, stating that delays hindered

primary challenge was the cost

attempts at cost reduction.

of hydrogen production, where input power contributes to 60% of

“There’s a fair bit of work to get

Russell James, General Manager

the total cost. Price-competitive

done to get the price point down

Hydrogen & Future Fuels, ATCO

fuels, such as low-cost wholesale

so anyone looks at it and says,

Australia

gas made available through the

well, this is cheaper than diesel, I

gas reservation policy, and the

should be doing this already, which

global capacity constraints on

is where we’re at with renewables.

electrolyzers were other hurdles,

Right now, it’s cheaper to install

according to James.

renewables than new power plants, for example. And that’s ultimately

Julian Soles, CEO, First Mode

Zoe von Batenburg emphasized

where we need to get to.”

the need for more data about hydrogen’s application in mining

How are WA mines and suppliers

and metals processing. “We need

collaborating on hydrogen

to see the data, we need to see the

initiatives?

trials - like the projects that Julian

Russell James highlighted

Ewan Norton-Smith, Head of

spoke about earlier - to have all of

increasing collaboration between

Business Development (APAC),

that information to be able to make

seemingly competing parties in

Electric Hydrogen

those investment decisions around

the hydrogen industry. He said

whether it might make sense to

there was a shift in perspective and

integrate hydrogen.”

companies were recognizing the value of combining their strengths

Justin Pitts detailed challenges

for a unified approach.

in cost competitiveness between Zoe von Batenburg, Investment

hydrogen and diesel, along with

Russell also stressed the need

Director, Business Development

logistical and supply issues.

for OEM providers to take initial risks and governmental support

& Transactions, Australian Renewable Energy Agency

Ewan Norton-Smith from Electric

through organizations like ARENA.

(ARENA)

Hydrogen, an industrial electrolyzer

He emphasized the importance

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PAGE 54

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE of collaborative problem-solving,

replacements for diesel and

such as a consortium approach, to

emitted only water and vapor,

overcome challenges and dispel doubts about hydrogen’s feasibility in demanding conditions.

How are we expecting the economics of green hydrogen to evolve?

The experts discussed various factors affecting the cost competitiveness of hydrogen.

Zoe von Batenburg highlighted the need to scale up hydrogen production to bring down costs in Australia in line with the US, Japan, Germany, and the UK, all countries offering strong incentives for large-scale hydrogen projects. The Australian government’s Hydrogen Headstart program in collaboration with ARENA, which aims to address capital and operating cost challenges in achieving cost parity and building a competitive hydrogen industry in Australia, was a step in the right direction, according to Batenburg.

Ewan Norton-Smith emphasized the critical role of cheap and plentiful renewable electricity in driving down the cost of green hydrogen.

“Each $10 a megawatt hour change in electricity price has about 50 cents per kilogram impact. So, if your electricity cost is $20 a megawatt hour more expensive, that’s going to have a $1 impact on your green hydrogen cost.”

Julian Soles noted that predicting cost parity with diesel is challenging due to various factors that would vary from country to country, some of it driven by government, some of it driven by existing renewable infrastructure.

JULIAN SOLES UNDERLINED THE URGENCY OF ACTION TO DRIVE DOWN HYDROGEN COSTS, STATING THAT DELAYS HINDERED ATTEMPTS AT COST REDUCTION. “There is a really good chance that by 2030 we’re going to be much lower. And that’s when you start to really see your site seeing much more mass adoption and ability to then drive the hydrogen market.”

Russell James said it ultimately boiled down again to the use case.

If electrification is essential to net zero, and cannot be achieved merely through batteries and renewables, then hydrogen becomes essential. “And then we’re not really talking about the cost. It’s: What is the cost of the alternative?”

Justin Pitts provided a timeframe of 2027 for cost parity, backed by research and modelling, with some instances of faster adoption among miners who invest in their own electrolyzers.

Can you talk about some of the takeaways so far? Renewable hydrogen performance compared to diesel?

Justin Pitts discussed the positive aspects of hydrogen technology, highlighting its transformative potential. He shared the example of hydrogen-powered generators in action during the Formula One event in Melbourne. These 100 KV generators were direct

creating a clean and quiet environment.

“You see people coming up, and, you know, sitting up against the generator that’s powering all the food stalls and events, all it’s emitting is water and vapor. It was pretty amazing to see because we’ve dealt with diesel for a long time. And you don’t often get kids eating sushi at the exhaust of diesel generators.”

“But yes, obviously the big prize is mining.”

How does green hydrogen change mine design, operation and infrastructure requirements?

Julian Soles: “I think you have to look at each mine site. But we’re trying to minimize infrastructure and changes to a miner with our solution.”

That solution would do away with the production of hydrogen on a mine site due to balance sheet considerations. Instead, First Mode was evaluating a hub model.

“Then we can build a sufficient scale that makes sense and serve multiple mines, but smaller amounts, and as they get used to the technology and grow, you can then scale up much more easily that way.”

What does a mine need in terms of renewable energy supply to consider the green hydrogen option?

Ewan Norton-Smith discussed the variable factors, particularly the requirement of lots of renewable electrons - as cheaply as possible

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PAGE 55

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE - for an onsite green hydrogen solution.

“So, having some additional spilt

BHP: TRIALLING RENEWABLE FUEL AT YANDI IRON ORE OPERATIONS

capacity is a big benefit.”

Ewan Norton-Smith highlighted a significant point: the supply constraint of green hydrogen in Australia is expected to diminish

Yanni Kotsos, General Manager,

in the near future thanks to

Yandi Mine, BHP

the government’s Hydrogen Headstart program and large-

Yanni Kotsos, General Manager of

scale electrolyzers scheduled for

BHP’s Yandi mine in the Pilbara

deployment between 2025 and

region of Western Australia,

2026.

presented on a trial of the use of hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO),

“So, the supply issue that we’ve

a renewable fuel, to power mining

been facing around 95% of

equipment at the site.

hydrogen being grey hydrogen is one that will be temporary, and will

Electrifying mining equipment

be replaced by green hydrogen.”

is a key component of BHP’s plans to achieve a reduction of

What are the immediate next steps

at least 30% in group operational

for developing the viability of

emissions by fiscal year 2030, and

green hydrogen for WA mines?

net zero operational emissions by

Zoe Von Batenburg reiterated

2050. However, the company is

the importance of engineering,

exploring the use of renewable fuel

technical feasibility, pilot projects,

alternatives such as HVO in certain

and trials to gather real-world data

mining equipment, mainly dozers

that demonstrated the viability and

and ancillary equipment, which do

functionality of hydrogen solutions.

not currently have a clear pathway

Von Batenburg also highlighted

to electrification.

the significance of sharing this data with various stakeholders

HVO is produced through a

including supply chain partners,

purification and refining process

original equipment manufacturers

using organic waste, renewable

(OEMs), and facilities managers

fats, and vegetable oils as

who are responsible for integrating

feedstocks. It emits up to 95%

hydrogen into operations.

fewer greenhouse gases compared to fossil diesel and is already

In summary, a program of work that

recognized as a decarbonisation

“allows us to learn quickly to reach

method in regulated markets like

that point where we make decisions

Europe and the US. Additionally,

around whether these use cases

HVO can be used as a drop-in

make sense, and whether we can

fuel without requiring engine

make investment decisions around

modifications or infrastructure

deployment in order to reach the

changes.

decarbonisation targets that we’re

HVO IS PRODUCED THROUGH A PURIFICATION AND REFINING PROCESS USING ORGANIC WASTE, RENEWABLE FATS, AND VEGETABLE OILS AS FEEDSTOCKS During the three-month trial at Yandi, HVO sourced from BP was used in two haul trucks, one excavator, and two dozers, with two different blends of HVO and fossil diesel.

“The trial was completed safely with no recordable injuries all the way from mobilization to decommissioning, and performance of all machines participating in the trial was broadly in line with performance under fossil diesel,” said Kotsos. “Also, no maintenance activities were required during the trial as a result of the change to HVO blends.”

According to Kotsos, the main challenge for wider adoption of HVO lies in the current price differential with fossil diesel, as producing renewable diesel is more expensive. However, BHP expects the price of HVO to decline over the next decade as demand and supply increase.

The company believes that as the carbon-adjusted price of fossil diesel rises, it will eventually converge with the price of renewable fuels such as HVO.

all aiming for.”

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PAGE 56

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE PANEL: SUSTAINABLE FUEL APPLICATIONS IN MINING

within the mining sector.

of diesel annually, showing scope for 10% substitution.

What role are sustainable fuels expected to play in reducing GHG

Jennifer Lauber Patterson referred

emissions for mines? And why do

to renewable diesel as essential for

you think they’ve underperformed?

achieving net carbon zero goals,

Simon Roycroft opened the

emphasizing its cost-effectiveness

Chair: Simon Roycroft, Chair,

discussion with data from the

and compatibility with different

Cleaner Fuels Alliance, Bioenergy

Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP)

applications. “We think it is

Australia

that showed only 5% of global

relatively competitive, and we like

emissions are covered by on-

the drop-in nature of it. Not having

track targets, and that disclosed

to replace capital that would be

corporate targets would not limit

intensive is a really good way of

warming to the Paris aligned 1.5°.

being able to transition. So, I think

“Some would argue that bioenergy

it’s a huge opportunity.”

Jean-Jacques Lavigne, Chief

in Australia, if not the world, is a

Commercial Officer, Binex

sleeping giant, overlooked amongst

[To BHP] What is the scope for

the mix of options that currently

renewable fuels at BHP?

exist and that has a much larger

Yanni Kotsos clarified that in

and immediate role to play,” he said

Western Australia, where a

in the context of decarbonisation.

significant portion of emissions arise from diesel consumption in

Peter Chomley, Director, Just

mining equipment and locomotives,

Biodiesel

BHP is considering battery electric technology for electrification.

Jennifer Lauber Patterson, Executive Director, FutureEnergy Australia

Yanni Kotsos, General Manager, Yandi Mine, BHP

SOME WOULD ARGUE THAT BIOENERGY IN AUSTRALIA, IF NOT THE WORLD, IS A SLEEPING GIANT, OVERLOOKED AMONGST THE MIX OF OPTIONS THAT CURRENTLY EXIST AND THAT HAS A MUCH LARGER AND IMMEDIATE ROLE TO PLAY

However, he noted that while electrification is feasible for certain equipment, it may not be suitable for other machines due to factors such as usage and volume. In such cases, BHP would explore renewable fuels like HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) as viable alternatives.

[To BHP] What would be BHP’s asset planning around renewable fuels?

Yanni Kotsos re-emphasized BHP’s focus on electrification as its primary strategy for emissions

What will take the place of fossil fuels in miners’ strategy towards

The capacity for domestic supply

achieving a state of zero net

of renewable fuels would top out

reduction.

emissions? Among the alternatives

at about 1 billion litres by about

However, he acknowledged that

being investigated are fuels derived

2030 due to limitations of feedstock

certain scenarios might prove

from sustainable sources, such as

availability, noted Peter Chomley in

challenging to electrify in the short

biofuels. This panel deliberated

a broad-brush picture of demand

term, making renewable fuels like

on the array of choices, economic

and supply of biodiesel. In contrast,

HVO an attractive alternative -

considerations, accessibility, and

despite electrification trends, the

provided these were operationally

potential uses of eco-friendly fuels

mining sector used 10 billion litres

convenient as drop-in replacements

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PAGE 57

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT SESSION REPORTS CONTINUE

feedstock that could have been processed here to obtain renewable diesel. Comments.

Jean-Jacques Lavigne shared his thoughts on Australia’s abundant resources and the need, particularly for mines, to make better use of resources such as often-wasted

IT WOULD ALSO COME DOWN TO WHETHER MINES WOULD CONSIDER SUPPORTING A RENEWABLE DIESEL INDUSTRY IN AUSTRALIA.

water and marginal land that could be utilized for agriculture and bio fuels.

Simon Roycroft endorsed Lavigne’s vision, stating that Australia had the potential to become a renewable superpower by leveraging its resources to produce feedstocks for

them would have commercially

food, fertilizer, and fuels.

available electrification solutions immediately, making room for the

He underscored the intersection

potential use of renewable fuels in

of agriculture and mining as a

specific scenarios.

game-changing opportunity for the country.

Jennifer Lauber Patterson for conventional diesel in existing

added that the choice between

equipment and infrastructure.

What policy settings do we need in

electrification and renewable fuels

Australia to be able to stimulate

would depend on factors such as Nevertheless, BHP still sees

the growth of feedstock, keep it

the capital requirements, returns

electrification as the more

in Australia, produce the fuels

on investment, and the cost-

attractive long-term solution and

that we need for our own energy

effectiveness of each option.

envisions renewable fuels playing a

security, regional economic

“I do think, in certain situations, the

role in cases where electrification is

growth, and support those hard

renewable diesel outcome is going

not yet feasible or viable.

to decarbonise diesel intensive

to be a better option, particularly

industries?

if you’ve got a plant that still has [To BHP] It’s been difficult for

Peter Chomley stressed the need

15-20 years, or so, of life,” Jennifer

biodiesel to really get off the

for a policy framework in Australia

said.

to support the local renewable fuels

ground. But if we got to a stage

industry, suggesting that without

where we could get a quality,

It would also come down to

abundant supply of the product at

such support, significant progress

whether mines would consider

a price point that made sense, do

might not be possible.

supporting a renewable diesel

you think that would slow down

industry in Australia.

BHP’s inclination to adopt other

“Yes, we need the regulatory sync signals,” agreed Jennifer. “And that

technologies?

Australia has been a laggard on

Yanni Kotsos noted that BHP

would be so helpful for everyone

renewable fuels compared to

had numerous pieces of mining

who wants to decarbonise in

the EU and North America. It has

equipment, and not all of

Australia, because it would be then

also chosen to export valuable

a level playing field for everyone.”

For agenda suggestions contact adrienne.baker@energyandmines.com For exhibit or sponsorship contact olivia.mendoza@energyandmines.com

PAGE 58

AUSTRALIA SUMMIT Simon Roycroft raised the idea

electrification faced substantial

following wish list on renewable

of blending small percentages of

delays.

fuels:

renewable fuels (1%, 2%, 3%) with

•

We would love to see the

conventional diesel to support the

Simon Roycroft brought up

economics improve. Right

emerging industry and potentially

examples of legislation and

now, even carbon offsets are

lessen the cost burden.

policies in North America, such as

cheaper than the differential in

the US renewable fuel standard,

price. But obviously, physical

The Australian automotive diesel

low carbon fuel standard, and

abatement is always better.

standard allows up to 5% without

blenders tax credit, which provided

any disclosure. Is that of interest

subsidies for renewable fuels. “And

accreditations and certifications

to mining companies in terms of

unfortunately, that’s why they can

for the different types of raw

being able to extend a small (even

afford to pay the money they do to

materials.

token) support to help the fledgling

pull the feedstock out of Australia,”

biodiesels industry?

he commented. “So, policy is very

Yanni Kotsos reiterated that

important to bridge that gap.”

•

•

Ethical production of the fuel – this is quite important to BHP.

•

while BHP’s current plans did

Seeing more and more

Seeing more uptake from the original equipment

not involve blending renewable

[To BHP] From your perspective,

manufacturers (OEMs) and

fuels with conventional diesel,

what do you think could be done

allowing the use of high

there might be circumstances in

by the mining industry, not

blend levels, even up to 100%

the future where such a strategy

necessarily BHP, to help stimulate

perhaps.

could be considered, especially if

this growth?

technological advancements for

Yanni Kotsos responded with the

This is to recognise the Delegates of the

Energy and Mines Summit 2023

for contributing 600

600

native trees and shrubs in the Yarra Yarra Biodiversity Corridor

Proudly restoring Australia’s natural habitat through biodiverse reforestation of degraded land.

Thank you for supporting native reforestation and habitat restoration within Australia’s largest biodiverse reforestation carbon sink project.

Dr Phil Ireland | Chief Executive Officer

Issue Date: 23 June 2023 Carbon Neutral Pty Ltd is regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments

PAGE 59 For agenda suggestions contact adrienne.baker@energyandmines.com Commission and holds Australian Financial Services Licence Number 451004

For exhibit or sponsorship contact olivia.mendoza@energyandmines.com