Antofagasta and ABB Partner to Accelerate Mining Decarbonization

Antofagasta Minerals and ABB have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to accelerate decarbonization in Chile's mining sector by electrifying and automating operations. This partnership will leverage ABB's eMine™ solutions and consultative studies to develop and implement net zero emission haulage solutions. Antofagasta Minerals will serve as an early adopter and test site for ABB’s technologies, including the eMine™ Trolley System, which aims to significantly reduce diesel consumption and environmental impact. This initiative aligns with Antofagasta's goal of cutting emissions by 50% by 2035 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

The collaboration represents a significant step toward electrification in mining, addressing the challenges of meeting growing copper demand while reducing carbon emissions. ABB's expertise in power distribution and decarbonization technologies will support Antofagasta Minerals in exploring and implementing sustainable solutions, including testing battery-powered trucks and trolley assist technologies at its Los Pelambres site. The partnership underscores both companies' commitment to setting new standards for a greener mining industry.

“Our shared vision in achieving more sustainable processes and operations in the mining industry drives us to innovate and push the boundaries of what is possible. Industry collaboration is vital to achieving the progress needed to reduce the industry’s environmental impact. As one of the industry’s largest copper players, Antofagasta Mineral’s support is invaluable to this pursuit. Combined with ABB’s holistic eMine framework, this is a major step towards achieving the all-electric mine of the future and fuelling decarbonization efforts. We are fully invested in the collaborative journey to develop further solutions.” said Max Luedtke, Global Business Line Manager Mining, ABB.

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