Issue link: http://resourceworld.uberflip.com/i/759903
D E C E M B E R / J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 7 www.resourceworld.com 57 MININGWORLD S ourcing energy has always been a challenge for miners, especially those in remote locations. Diesel has long been the go to fuel for many a resource proj- ect not near to grid power. But, the pressure on the mining industry to reduce the use of green house gas producing fossil fuels has miners looking at alternative fuel sources. Even projects with access to a power grid are looking at ways to reduce their use of fossil fuels. Electric vehicles are used more and more at mine sites giving rise to a new industry of electric mining vehicle research, development and manufacturing. Besides environmental pressures, eco- nomic pressure is being felt by companies trying to stay afloat in a sluggish resource market. Finding cheaper and cleaner renewable energy solutions helps compa- nies to be environmentally responsible and economically efficient. Advancements in battery technology and energy production are being adopted by mining companies looking to maintain production guidance while reducing costs and emissions. Energy and Mines is a global informa- tion and event media provider for energy management and operations of the mining sector with events in Canada, South Africa, Chile, and UK with the aim of "bringing together the mining and renewable energy sectors to drive solutions for affordable, reliable and sus- tainable power for mines." Energy and Mines has developed relationships with leaders in mining, renewable energy and research towards this end. Recently, based on independent research commissioned by Energy and Mines, the first global ranking of mining companies by their renewable energy use was released. This year, at the 4th Annual Renewables for Mining Summit, held in Toronto November 21 to 22, some of those miners received awards based on their ranking. These rankings will provide an annual benchmark for the mining industry and a way to recognize the most proactive companies in their use of renewable energy. An article by Energy and Mines estimates that there is ~1,000 MW of renewables currently powering mines. "More and more miners are considering renewables as a way to meet sustainability targets and decrease their carbon foot- prints," says Sunil Kansal, Senior Manager at Deloitte, which specializes in energy and strategic advisory. "This is the first time mining leaders will receive international recognition and awards for their investment in these tech- nologies which are helping drive down energy costs and carbon emissions for min- ing operations," commented Dr. Andrew Slavin, Director, Energy and Mines. "We are delighted to recognize and celebrate these mines that are leading the way for other mines to adopt similar solutions." The following companies received an award for their investment in renewable energy: n Best use of Energy Storage (Electrical) at a Mine Site: Glencore – Raglan Mine Best use of Renewables for Mine Transportation: Kirkland Lake Gold Renewables in Mining – Visionary of the Year: Nick Holland, CEO, Gold Fields Best use of Renewables at a Reclaimed Mine site: Teck Resources Best use of Renewables for Mine Exploration: Avalon Advanced Materials Best use of Renewables for Mine Exploration: CODELCO Best use of Solar PV in Mining >100 MW: Antofagasta Minerals Best use of Solar PV in Mining < 100 MW: IAMGOLD Best use of Wind in Mining > 100 MW: Industrias Peñoles Best use of Wind in Mining > 50 MW and < 100 MW: Grupo Mexico Best use of Wind in Mining < 50 MW: Diavik Diamond Mine, Rio Tinto Renewables in Mining – Project of the Year: Sandfire Resources Outstanding Commitment to Renewables in Mining: Barrick Gold Miners receive recognition for investing in renewable energy by Kathrine Moore