The first electric excavator in BHP’s fleet is now operational at its Yandi iron ore mine, bolstering operator safety and productivity and progressing the company’s ambitions for decarbonisation.
The R 9400 E Liebherr electric excavator utilises an electric motor instead of a diesel engine and is fed power by a trailing cable. The machine is also equipped with Liebherr’s autonomous cable reeler for optimal onsite mobility.
Western Australia Iron Ore (WAIO) Asset President Tim Day said reducing diesel in the business was key to helping it achieve its medium-term target to reduce operational greenhouse gas emissions (Scopes 1 and 2 from operated assets) by at least 30 per cent by FY2030 (from adjusted FY2020 levels) – and ultimately its long-term goal of net zero operational GHG emissions by CY2050.
“Electrification of our fleet is our preferred solution to displace greenhouse gas emissions from using diesel. From trucks to trains to excavators – we’re working hard to electrify our equipment,” Mr Day said.
“Collaborations with partners like Liebherr are critical to accelerate development of the technology required to reduce diesel emissions while ensuring we continue to improve the safety and productivity of our operations.”
Executive General Manager, Sales and Marketing at Liebherr-Australia, Brian Boitano, said, “The R 9400 E is a testament to Liebherr’s dedication to providing innovative and efficient zero emission solutions for the mining sector.
“We are thrilled to partner with BHP, a forward-thinking industry leader, to introduce our proven electric excavators into their operations and to help them move forward in their decarbonisation journey.”
This milestone underscores BHP’s commitment to adopting cutting-edge technologies and highlights Liebherr’s role as a trusted partner and solutions provider within the mining sector.
BHP’s ongoing strategy aims to decarbonise its mining equipment by switching from diesel to renewable electricity or other low to zero GHG emissions power. Renewable electricity is not purchased through the market as WAIO is not connected to an existing grid. BHP working through the best way to introduce the large volumes of renewable or other low to zero emissions power that it will need.
This includes several actions to decarbonise its sites, focusing on maximising renewable electricity and other sources of low to zero GHG emissions power, diesel displacement through electrification, and working to manage fugitive methane emissions.
Featured image: Another77/shutterstock.com
