Author: Ing. Antonio Zavarce, June 2, 2023.
Introduction
In recent years, a significant change has occurred in the way the world obtains energy. Renewable energies represent a positive alternative in the solution to the growing concerns about climate change, the scarcity of natural resources and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
In this way, it is intended to continue promoting the transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, gaining momentum and gradually displacing fossil fuels, which have historically been the main source of energy used worldwide.
Technology plays a fundamental role in this paradigm shift, and mineral exploration is no exception, displacing fossil fuels and generating significant changes in the mining industry. The transition to cleaner energy sources has led to a greater focus on the responsible exploitation of minerals.
As the demand for minerals increases, more sustainable mining practices are being implemented and the aim is to reduce the environmental and social impacts associated with exploration and extraction, generating a new approach in the mineral supply chain, promoting transparency and traceability. to guarantee a more ethical and responsible production.
In this article, an exhibition is made on the future of energies, the applications and the technology applied in mining exploration to reduce the environmental impact.
Renewable energy: the sustainable energy future
Renewable energies are emerging as the sustainable energy future. With the growing impact of climate change and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, these energy sources such as solar, wind, hydroelectric and biomass have established themselves as clean, inexhaustible, abundant energies and generate a smaller environmental footprint in comparison. with fossil fuels.
In addition, technological advances and lower costs have made renewable energy increasingly accessible and competitive. Governments and international organizations are actively promoting their adoption through clean energy policies and incentives.
As the transition to renewable energy intensifies, a significant transformation is expected in the global energy landscape, boosting the creation of green jobs, contributing to a more sustainable and emission-free future. Technology has promoted the development of more efficient and affordable renewable energy generation and storage systems, allowing their integration into the energy matrix in a scalable manner.
Application of renewable energies in mining exploration
The mining industry is known for its high energy consumption and environmental impact. However, technology offers innovative solutions that can drastically reduce these problems. By using renewable sources , such as solar and wind power, exploration equipment and processing plants can be powered
These energies offer a series of solutions for mineral exploration. First of all, they are inexhaustible and abundant sources of energy, which guarantees a constant and reliable supply in the long term. This is especially valuable for mining operations in remote or hard-to-reach areas, where connection to the conventional power grid may be expensive or simply not feasible.
Among the main energy sources and their applications are the following:
Solar energy: It is one of the most promising renewable options for the mining industry. Photovoltaic solar panels can be installed on mining infrastructure, such as trucks or machinery, or on large solar plants on available land. The energy generated can be used to power various mining operations, from drilling and crushing equipment to lighting and HVAC systems. In addition, advances in energy storage allow electricity generated by the sun to be used at night or on cloudy days, thus optimizing its efficiency (Figure 1).
A solar powered mining center is an innovative solution that combines mineral extraction with the use of solar energy to meet the energy needs of the mining operation. This initiative seeks to harness the potential of solar energy as a renewable and sustainable energy source, with the aim of reducing dependence on fossil fuels and reducing the environmental footprint of the mining industry.
The implementation of solar systems in mining centers can require a significant initial investment (Figure 2), but in the long term, it can result in cost savings and lasting economic and environmental benefits. It is important to carry out a detailed feasibility analysis and proper planning to determine the required power generation capacity, the optimal design and location of solar panels, as well as the necessary power storage and distribution systems.
Wind energy : It represents a great potential in mineral exploration. Wind farms can be installed in areas with constant, high winds, providing a source of renewable energy to power mining operations. Wind turbines can continuously generate electricity and, like solar power, can be supplemented with storage systems to ensure a constant supply. In addition, available space in mines, such as mountain slopes or open land, can be used for the installation of wind turbines without interfering with mining activities.
Furthermore, wind farms, (Figure 3) can provide a constant supply of power, as long as there are adequate winds. Wind turbines continuously generate electricity, making them especially useful for meeting the power demands of mining operations that require a constant and reliable supply. In addition, excess power generated during periods of high winds can be stored in batteries or sold to the local power grid, generating additional revenue for the mine.
The strategic location of wind farms in areas close to the mines makes it possible to reduce energy transmission losses over long distances, which improves the efficiency of energy supply. In addition, by being installed close to mining operations, energy transportation and distribution costs are reduced, which can result in significant savings for mining companies.
Hydropower also offers opportunities in mineral exploration, especially in areas with nearby rivers, streams, or lakes. Hydroelectric power generation systems use the flow of water to drive turbines and generate electricity. However, it is important to take into account the environmental and social impacts associated with the construction of dams and the alteration of aquatic ecosystems, so a careful feasibility study and environmental impact assessment must be carried out before implementing these types of projects. .
Technology for efficiency and environmental protection
Below are some technological innovations that are transforming the mining industry.
Process monitoring and control: Advances in sensors, the Internet of Things (IoT) and data analytics enable real-time monitoring of mining processes. This helps to identify areas for improvement and optimize the use of resources, thus reducing energy consumption and polluting emissions.
Automation and robotics: the use of robots in mining exploration improves efficiency and reduces risks for workers. The technology of autonomous vehicles and drones allows the inspection and mapping of mining areas in a safer and more precise way, minimizing the need for personnel to travel in unsafe areas.
Implementation of renewable technologies in mineral exploration
The most important leading companies in the development of renewable energy projects in the mining field are mentioned below:
- Rio Tinto : This global mining company has set ambitious goals in terms of renewable energy and emissions reduction. They have invested in solar and wind power projects to power their mining operations, and are working on energy storage solutions to ensure a constant supply. Additionally, they are using state-of-the-art technology to improve efficiency in their mining processes and reduce environmental impact.
- BHP: It is one of the largest mining companies in the world, it has established clear objectives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. They have implemented solar power and energy storage systems at some of their mines, reducing their reliance on fossil fuels. They are also investing in monitoring and control technology to improve efficiency and minimize environmental impacts.
- Anglo American : This mining company has committed to reducing its emissions and increasing the use of renewable energy in its operations. They have completed solar and wind power projects at some of their mines, significantly reducing carbon emissions. In addition, they are investing in innovative technologies, such as the use of electric vehicles in their mining operations, to further reduce their environmental footprint.
- Glencore: Glencore, one of the world’s leading mining and trading companies, is also focused on advancing renewable energy. Investing in solar energy and energy storage projects at several of its operations, decreasing its dependence on fossil fuels and reducing emissions. In addition, they are using advanced technology to monitor and optimize their mining processes, improving efficiency and minimizing environmental impacts.
Conclusions
The transition to renewable energy in mining exploration is an urgent need to reduce environmental impacts and build a more sustainable future. Technology plays a fundamental role in providing innovative solutions that enable the use of clean energy, improve efficiency and protect the environment. Through the implementation of technologies such as solar, wind, hydroelectric energy and the application of intelligent approaches in mineral exploration, it is possible to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, while protecting the environment.
Collaboration between the mining industry, technology developers and governments is essential to drive adoption of these solutions and accelerate the transition to a future where fossil fuels become the past. Technological progress in mineral exploration gives us the opportunity to use resources more efficiently and sustainably, ensuring economic viability and environmental protection for future generations. The future is renewable and technology is our ally to achieve it!
Remember that the implementation of renewable technologies in mining exploration not only benefits the environment, but can also have a positive impact on the economy and the corporate image of companies. Increasingly, consumers and investors are demanding sustainable and responsible practices.
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