E&M: When can miners expect commercially viable storage solutions that allow them to time-shift renewables? RE: The good news is that commercially viable storage solutions for time-shifting renewables are already here, and they’re becoming more accessible to mines. Thanks to ongoing advancements in battery technologies like lithium-ion and lithium-titanate (LTO), many mining operations are already implementing large-scale Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) to store excess renewable energy for later use. As these technologies continue to mature, the cost of energy storage is expected to decrease, making it even more affordable for mines to integrate renewables effectively. With improved grid integration, ongoing innovation, and reduced costs, more mines will soon be able to deploy cost-effective, commercially viable solutions to store and dispatch renewable power. This shift will not only help mines reduce their reliance on fossil fuels but also contribute significantly to the industry’s overall decarbonization goals. E&M: What is your approach to circularity, and how are you improving battery waste management? RE: Toshiba is deeply committed to circular economy principles and responsible battery lifecycle management. Our SCiB™ batteries are designed with longevity in mind, which means fewer replacements and less waste. Additionally, we’re focused on sustainable battery recycling and repurposing end-of- life batteries for secondary applications. We’re actively engaging with partners in Australia to create sustainable disposal and recycling pathways, ensuring that our SCiB™ batteries contribute to a greener, more sustainable mining industry. This commitment to circularity is essential for minimising the environmental impact of mining operations and ensuring that the industry moves towards a more sustainable future.
considering the total cost of ownership. This includes factors like ongoing maintenance, life of the system, and long-term reliability. Additionally, solutions that allow for redeployment or transfer of ownership post mine closure can offer superior value. Toshiba’s SCiB™ batteries are a prime example of a durable and cost-efficient solution. With a lifespan exceeding 20,000 cycles, these batteries reduce the need for frequent replacements, while their fast- charging capabilities ensure minimal downtime, keeping operations running smoothly and cost- effectively. E&M: How are battery chemistries and capacity evolving, and how will this progress support mine decarbonisation? RE: While electrification of mining trucks is becoming a major focus, the impact on existing mine grid infrastructure is often overlooked. As mines transition to renewable energy, battery systems are evolving to not only power electric fleets but also stabilize microgrids and reduce the need for oversized grids to manage the peak loads. Battery chemistries are advancing rapidly, with formulations like lithium titanium oxide (LTO) and lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) offering longer cycle lives, better thermal stability, and faster charging capabilities. These improvements are crucial to enhancing safety, especially in mining environments where traditional lithium-ion chemistries may present risks. Innovations such as rapid-charging systems are also minimizing downtime, making electrification more practical and efficient. In the future, batteries will need to play a dual role—charging electric mining vehicles while also stabilizing and supporting the grid infrastructure. This requires a very high-power battery that can handle the huge number of full and micro cycles required. Ultimately, these advancements will support mine decarbonization by reducing reliance on diesel, lowering emissions, and enabling a more sustainable, resilient energy system for mining operations. Toshiba’s SCiB™ BESS, with its ultra-fast charging, long lifespan, and high-power capability, plays a crucial role in this transition—delivering reliable and efficient support for both electrification and grid stabilisation.
Leading the Change in Energy Transition and Mine Decarbonisation Our sector-focused lawyers have supported clients with large-scale mining decarbonisation projects for over a decade. Our expert advice will help you to navigate the complexities and opportunities of the energy transition with confidence.
Contact: Matthew Knox, matthew.knox@hfw.com | hfw.com/sustainability-hub Americas | Europe | Middle East | Asia Pacific
Hybrid Control Systems
Combining multiple forms of generation and storage is what we do. Independent of any particular suppliers, we design and implement innovative, sustainable and dispatchable systems at any scale. Round up your assets for better reliability, utilisation, and system security in any event
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