The collaboration aims to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and drive sustainability in the mining sector.
This initiative marks the first step in testing battery-electric haul trucks at the Pilbara operations of both companies. According to the two major miners, the data and insights they gain from these trials will guide further development and potential large-scale deployment of battery-electric fleets at their operations.
Noting the broader implications of the plan, she added, “Replacing diesel as a fuel source requires us to develop a whole new operational ecosystem. We need to rethink how we plan our mines, operate our haulage networks, and manage the additional safety and operational challenges that come with these changes. These trials are critical to our success as we learn how to integrate these new technologies into our operations.”
Rio Tinto Iron Ore CEO Trott expressed similar enthusiasm about the work planned with BHP, commenting, “This collaboration brings together two leading global miners with two of the world’s biggest manufacturers of haul trucks to tackle the critical challenge of zero-emissions haulage. There is no clear path to net zero without zero-emissions haulage, so it’s crucial that we work together to achieve this goal as efficiently as possible.”
In its 2023 fiscal year, BHP reduced its operational GHG emissions (Scopes 1 and 2 from operated assets) by 11 percent from the previous year. The company’s medium-term target is a 30 percent reduction by its 2030 fiscal year, while it has a long-term goal of net-zero operational GHG emissions by 2050.
Securities Disclosure: I, Giann Liguid, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.
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