MINE DECARBONISATION: PRIORITIES, CHALLENGES AND 2030 TARGETS As we approach the 9th annual Energy and Mines event, The Decarbonised Mine, in Perth on May 6-7, we invited speakers to share their insights on mine decarbonisation—highlighting their current priorities, key challenges, and what’s essential for miners to achieve their 2030 targets. Here’s a preview of their perspectives. Join us in person to explore these discussions further—visit the event site for details.
Q&A WITH JESSICA HARMAN, SENIOR MANAGER, DIESEL TRANSITION PROGRAM, RIO TINTO
E&M: What are the biggest challenges at this stage of mining’s low-carbon transition?
One of the biggest challenges for diesel displacement is the availability, scalability and confidence of electrified mining equipment. Whilst there has been significant progress in the development of battery- electric mining vehicles, these technologies are still evolving, and widespread deployment will require further advancements in battery capacity, charging system performance, and fleet, autonomy and energy management integration. Our pilots and demonstrations of electrified fleet are focussed on these key areas to increase confidence in future widespread deployment. For renewable diesel, market immaturity creates uncertainty and there is a need to stimulate supply particularly in Australia to enable access to low cost sustainable feedstocks. Our recent investment in self- generated fuel feedstocks is crucial to understand and capitalize on this opportunity. E&M: What would help miners meet their 2030 targets and beyond? For Rio Tinto, electricity repowering is key to achieve our target of a 50% reduction in emissions by 2030.
E&M: What is your particular focus when it comes to decarbonising mining?
My focus is reducing our reliance on diesel and accelerating the adoption of low-emission alternatives across our haulage, ancillary and locomotive fleet. Like all Tier 1 miners, Rio Tinto utilises material volumes of diesel across our global operations, and our diesel- powered equipment is fundamental to how we mine and produce the resources needed for the global energy transition. Transitioning towards electrification and demonstrating battery electric equipment is safe, productive and reliable is my priority. Renewable diesel is also a key focus area for locations and equipment where electrification is not feasible and securing low cost sustainable supply in Australia is a strategic priority. Our overarching goal is to reduce emissions in a way that is both commercially viable and operationally effective while ensuring safety and reliability in our mining operations.
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