more widely used to manage the complex integration of these different energy sources in an optimal way. E&M: What are the key steps for creating the optimal path towards a 100% renewable energy system for a mine? MK: Every mine site is different and will have a different path towards 100% clean energy. The key steps are to first deeply understand the facilities load and available energy sources. In projects where we have seen the highest penetration of renewables there has been a strong wind, solar or hydro resource combined with a large build-out of energy storage and an openness towards alternative fuels such as biofuels or hydrogen. E&M: How are current hybrid projects performing and can you share any details of new projects with mining operators? MK: Wärtsilä hybrids are performing well and reducing fossil fuel consumption significantly. The Essakane project saves 6 million litres of fuel per year and at Fekola mine, 13 million litres of fuel. There have been several new projects such as the recently announced project with Zenith Energy in Australia where our hybrid systems will help islanded mines to decarbonise yet maintain high reliability. E&M: What are some of the recent developments for optimising the energy mix and performance of hybrids for mines? MK: Continuous improvements and developments in the Energy Management System software, which is basically the brain of the system, is where we are seeing better opportunities for optimisation. Smarter dispatch 26
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