Q&A WITH AGATA LESZKIEWICZ, eVINCI MICROREACTOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT LEAD – CANADA, WESTINGHOUSE ELECTRIC Agata is leading Westinghouse’s workshop on “Microreactors and Mine Decarbonization” at The Decarbonized Mine. E&M: What are the most significant opportunities and challenges for the mining industry in achieving decarbonization goals? How can companies overcome the barriers to implementation? AL: The reliable and continuous availability of energy, wherever it is needed, is crucial to the operational success of a mine. Companies in remote locations with harsh environments find it challenging to work with traditional renewable energy sources, especially during winter. However, the eVinci™ Microreactor, a small-footprint, clean energy source that can run for over eight years with a 99% operational availability, can be a game changer for miners. Decarbonized and reliable energy, on tap, is now achievable, and I look forward to introducing this exciting new energy option to you. E&M: Which innovative technologies or practices are you most excited about in the context of decarbonizing mining operations, and how do you see them shaping the industry’s future? AL: Imagine a nuclear battery providing clean energy in some of the most remote and challenging locations on earth. This small nuclear technology option will eliminate long supply chains and reliance on fossil fuels. There will be no interruptions, no uncertainty— just continuous, clean energy. The eVinci Microreactor is the future of energy for mines. E&M: How can mining companies balance the need for decarbonization with maintaining operational efficiency and profitability, especially in a competitive global market? AL: I recommend that mines commence future- focused planning immediately to achieve this difficult balance. Mining industry partners have a unique opportunity to be early adopters of a microreactor technology that allows them to virtually forget about energy concerns for at least eight years, with minimal needs of staffing and maintenance and round-the- clock energy and heat. The eVinci Microreactor is an energy solution for mines with efficiencies unmatched
elsewhere. Starting from 2030, every new mine can be launched with this technology, unlocking significant long-term cost reductions and operational efficiencies. However, scale of operations and strategic planning is essential to achieve these benefits, and the window to act is narrowing. Q&A WITH STEPHEN TAPP, MINE & VENTILATION MANAGER, G+ PLASTICS
Stephen will represent G+ Plastics, which is sponsoring the Wrap-Up Drinnks at The Decarbonized Mine.
E&M: What do you see as the most significant opportunities and challenges for the mining industry in achieving decarbonization goals? How can companies overcome the barriers to implementation? ST: The mining industry faces both substantial opportunities and challenges in its pursuit of decarbonization goals. One of the key opportunities lies in enhancing energy efficiency, particularly in ventilation systems, which can account for up to 50% of a mine’s energy consumption. At G+ Plastics, we provide innovative ventilation ducts made from smooth materials with perfectly sealed joints. This optimization reduces the energy needed to power fans, ultimately lowering both energy consumption and costs. However, challenges remain, particularly the geographical isolation of mining sites, which can hinder decarbonization efforts. Transporting and installing heavy or rigid ventilation systems in remote locations is often logistically difficult and expensive. To address this, G+ Plastics has developed flexible, lightweight ventilation ducts that are easy to transport and install, even in the most isolated areas. We believe continuous investment in research and development is critical to overcoming these barriers. By implementing customized solutions, mining companies can achieve their decarbonization targets and also improve operational efficiency and reduce long-term costs. E&M: Which innovative technologies or practices are you most excited about in the context of decarbonizing mining operations, and how do you see them shaping the future of the industry?
ST: At G+ Plastics, we are particularly excited about the integration of artificial intelligence (AI)
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