Supporting miners to net zero emissions Rod Saffy, Global Head of Mining, Aggreko
T
he energy market is undergoing significant change marked by a strong shift to renewable energy, and discerning METS companies are taking significant steps to support miners on their respective journeys toward achieving net zero carbon emissions. Some of the ways these companies have already innovated include:
• Turning waste gas into power • Adding battery storage and solar power to existing fleets • Finding creative ways to reduce generator emissions Some of the renewable power technologies and fuels available today offer the same – if not better – levels of reliability and competitiveness than traditional thermal technology. During the next few years, METS companies will increasingly need to lead by example, setting their own emissions targets (if they have not already), and ensuring their own vehicle fleet and equipment are prepared for the energy evolution of e-fuels, hydrogenready engines and fuel cells. It’s important that investment in new technology is a core part of a company’s values and actions, as new innovations will be critical for the mining industry’s clean energy revolution. The mining industry in Australia is moving forward with its commitments. On October 1, 2021, The Minerals Council of Australia (MCA) confirmed the industry’s ambition 110
BBMC Yearbook 2021
to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 in support of the goals of the Paris Agreement – a statement the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) endorsed. The QRC supports the Paris Agreement and its reductions goals to limit global warming to well below 2°C – preferably to 1.5°C – compared to preindustrial levels. Here are just some of the pathways that miners can embark on in the short term to reduce their emission targets. • Remote microgrid for mines Grid connection is not always available as mining companies are forced to push new frontiers of exploration due to scarce resources. To reach those resources, mines are increasingly being established in offgrid locations and their lifecycles can vary, meaning it is no longer always financially viable to build permanent power infrastructures to service the mine. Instead, remote mines are now utilising scalable microgrids that can evolve with the lifecycle, improving flexibility and efficiency. These microgrids also offer an independence from the grid that can often result in a cost-effective solution that doesn’t compromise on reliability. Whether it’s a
