BHP introduces first electric vehicle at Olympic Dam underground mine

By Dale Benton
Share
The world's largest underground mine has just taken a step towards a cleaner, more sustainable future. BHP Billiton has announced in a statement this w...

The world's largest underground mine has just taken a step towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.

BHP Billiton has announced in a statement this week that it has debuted its very first light electric vehicle at the company's Olympic Dam undergound mine in South Australia.

The company has been working extensively towards ambitious sustainability goals across its entire operations, with the vision of a 50% reduction in the number of employees with potential exposure to particulate matter.

The first ever light electric vehicle (LEV) will join the existing fleet at Olympic Dam, which currently stands at around 240 light vehicles.

A second LEV will be added in the near future.

The LEVS are powered by lithium ion and therefore do not rely on diesel, which significantly reduces the carbon emissions.

The Olympic Dam underground mine employs around 800 staff, with diesel equipment heavily relied upon for development, production, ore handling and mine services.

“During the trial, we’ll collect data on the vehicles’ performance, power supply, maintenance requirements, charging time and corrosion resistance underground,” said BHP in a statement.

“A decision on wider deployment at Olympic Dam is expected to be made during in the coming financial year.”

 

 

 

Share

Featured Articles

Intel Ridding its Supply Chain of Conflict Minerals

Intel first began to work towards responsibly sourced conflict minerals from the Democratic Republic of Congo and adjoining countries about 12 years

IEF on 'Paradox' of Mining's Role in Quest for Clean Energy

International Energy Forum says mining is the 'paradox' at heart of quest for clean energy but recognises the industry is addressing sustainability issues

ABB Reduces its Industrial e-Waste Impact

Leading global engineering company ABB – with strong mining presence – cuts industrial e-waste by promoting reuse and recycling in a push for circularity

Mining Automation Drives Efficiency and Safety Gains

Digital Mining

New Schneider SBS Energy Solution for Mining Sector

Smart Mining

Mining Conflicts Hit Communities As Battery Demand Soars

Sustainability