Based on the experience of Schneider Electric and Wartsila working together on more than 200 projects over the past 20 years, the solution not only greatly optimizes the efficiency of energy delivery and use, but also further reduces the environmental impact of the mining industry by integrating microgrids, thermal power generation, storage and other renewable energy sources, and delivers optimal cost effectiveness. Based on the pilot project, benefits to users with this solution include:
The new power system enables sustainable lithium mining operations that would otherwise be impossible in off-grid areas to increase product availability
Capital expenditure was reduced by an average of 27% and CO2 emissions by 20%
Accelerate the decarbonization of mining
Schneider Electric, a global expert in digital transformation in energy management and automation, and Wartsila, a global leader in smart technology and full life cycle solutions for the maritime and energy markets, have created a new sustainable, uninterrupted power solution for the world's most remote lithium mines for global mining operators. This includes tailor-made power consulting and design, power infrastructure construction, equipment delivery, installation, digital microgrid operations, and commissioning.
Based on the experience of Schneider Electric and Wartsila working together on more than 200 projects over the past 20 years, the solution not only greatly optimizes the efficiency of energy delivery and use, but also further reduces the environmental impact of the mining industry by integrating microgrids, thermal power generation, storage and other renewable energy sources, and delivers optimal cost effectiveness. Based on the pilot project, benefits to users with this solution include:
Overall capital expenditure was reduced by an average of 27%
Reduce CO2 emissions by up to 20% (or 18,500 tonnes) per mine per year
Replace local off-grid diesel power generation, reducing energy costs by 40%
Vivek Kapoor, vice president and Regional Head of Schneider Electric's Mining, Minerals and Metals business, said: "The benefits of this joint solution go far beyond lithium mining. To create a net-zero carbon future, electric vehicles and renewable energy storage must evolve towards being more affordable and accessible. The solution will enable mining operators to reduce the mine's impact on the local environment and reduce production costs. In addition, it will facilitate the development of the next generation of technologies and ultimately lay the foundation for a net-zero carbon society. Today, operators around the world need to decarbonize their operations as quickly as possible and move towards 100% renewable energy. This solution provides a solution to these challenges, making overall operations more transparent and efficient."
Jean Nabb, Director, Strategic Partnerships, Wartsila Energy Business, said: "The growing demand for lithium in countries around the world due to the hot battery storage industry is putting new pressure on the lithium mining industry not only to be as efficient as possible, but also to be more cost-effective. Power supply is one of the foundations for enhancing toughness and reliability. "Working with Schneider Electric, we have combined our strengths and experience to design an innovative solution that ensures a reliable energy supply, improves user efficiency, and delivers economic and environmental benefits."
The project is designed with the life cycle of a mining operation in mind, providing and delivering precisely the power needed to increase production capacity. As a result, operating costs and power availability are optimized, enabling users to meet production targets efficiently.
Due to the predictable component, power and maintenance costs involved, the solution can be applied to both new construction and inventory projects, further reducing the 24/7 working capital requirements of the mining process. The proposal makes it possible for remote mines to receive sustainable, uninterrupted power supply, which will be of great help to Argentina, which has the largest lithium reserves in the next five years.
In March 2020, Schneider Electric and Wartsila signed a cooperation framework agreement on the development of mining energy solutions, aiming to combine their advanced technologies to create more comprehensive solutions for the benefit of customers in the mining industry. At the same time, the two parties have also co-authored a commercial white paper on this solution, which was published in March 2021.
Wartsila Energy business
Wartsila Energy is leading the way for a 100% renewable energy future. We help our customers decarbonize their businesses by developing market-leading technologies. Our portfolio covers power plants powered by future fuels, hybrid solutions, energy storage and optimization technologies, including the GEMS Energy Management platform. Wartsila Energy's full life cycle services are designed to improve efficiency, enhance reliability and guarantee operational performance. Wartsila has delivered 74 GW of installed capacity and more than 80 energy storage systems in 180 countries and territories worldwide.
