Electrification of transportation systems at Boliden's Aitik mine

Challenge the practice is addressing: To minimize the impact of mining operations on the environment, new ways of working are needed to transform how mining operations recover natural resources that our society depends on. One of these new technologies is the electrification of the transportation system in the mining industry. To become fossil fuel-free, Boliden for example has installed trolley assist technology at its copper mine in Sweden.

Concrete practice to achieve the expected goal: The pilot project uses a 700 meter long trolley to transport tons of rocks at the open pit mine. The coverage of the trolley will be extended to 3km and the diesel usage will be reduced by eventually 5.500.000 liters a year. Furthermore, the all-weather technology potential will be tested in a region which reached up to -40C.

Expected impact/goal of the practice: The goal is to take action to decarbonize the value chain and reduce the impact on climate change. Ultimately, to minimize the impact of mining operations and to improve their environmental performance.

Who is the target user group of the practice/intervention or implementing the practice/intervention? This practice is relevant for industry contexts.