Wärtsilä, a global leader in smart technologies and full lifecycle solutions for the marine and energy markets, has collaborated with Schneider Electric to create a sustainable, uninterrupted power solution for the world’s most remote lithium mines.
The holistic purpose power system includes customized power supply consulting and design, power infrastructure installation, equipment delivery, assembly, digital microgrid operation and commissioning available to mining operators around the world.
The solution, developed by Schneider Electric and Wärtsilä in collaboration for more than 20 years, covers more than 200 projects and optimizes the efficient distribution and use of energy. Microgrids, thermal power generation, energy storage and other renewable energy sources are combined and harnessed to provide the mining industry with a highly cost-effective power solution with minimal environmental footprint. Typical results based on pilot projects include:
– Average 27% capital expenditure savings
– 20% or 18,500 tons of CO2 emission reduction per year per mine
– 40% reduction in energy cost when switching from local off-grid diesel power to the Schneider-Wärtsilä joint solution
Vivek Kapoor, Schneider Electric Mining, Minerals & Metals Segment Vice President and Regional Segment Leader, said: “The benefits of the solution go far beyond lithium mining. To create a net-zero future, electric vehicles and renewable energy storage must become more affordable and accessible. This solution will allow mine operators to reduce the environmental impact of their facilities and lower their production costs. It has the potential to power the next generation of technology and ultimately lay the foundation for a net-zero society. Global minerals, metals and mining operators need to rapidly decarbonize their operations and move towards 100% renewable. This solution responds to these challenges, bringing transparency and efficiency to previously opaque operations.”
Jean Nabb, Director of Strategic Partnerships at Wärtsilä Energy, said: “The growing global demand for lithium needed for battery storage applications is putting pressure on mining operations to be as efficient and cost-effective as possible. The power supply is a key element of durability and reliability. Together with Schneider, we designed a solution based on the strengths and experience of the two companies. This solution will not only secure a reliable energy supply, but also bring economic and environmental benefits through more efficient mining operations.”
The design concept of the project provides just the right level of power to make the mine productive, while extending the mine’s life cycle. As a result, operating costs are reduced and power usage is optimised, so that a mine can meet production targets.
Predictability of parts, power supply and maintenance costs reduces the need for working capital in the 24/7 cycle. This solution will also work for new mines currently being designed, as well as mining project conversions. Argentina, in particular, is the country with the greatest lithium mining potential when sustainable uninterruptible power is available in the next 5 years.
Schneider Electric and Wärtsilä signed a framework collaboration agreement for the development of mining energy solutions design in March 2020. The parties aim to optimize the benefits of their customers in mining projects by offering solutions based on technologies that complement each other.