Swedish equipment manufacturer Sandvik has recently secured a groundbreaking order for electric mining equipment at South32’s Hermosa critical minerals project in Arizona. This record-breaking deal is valued at over $100 million, marking a significant milestone in the shift towards sustainable mining practices.
The order placed by South32 includes a range of electric mining equipment, such as cable bolters, loaders, and longhole drills. These cutting-edge machines represent a leap forward in the electrification of mining operations, offering increased efficiency, lower fuel expenses, and reduced maintenance costs. This move towards electrification aligns with the broader trend of transitioning towards cleaner energy sources and reducing the environmental impact of mining activities.
Sandvik’s President of Mining and Rock Solutions, Mats Eriksson, expressed pride in contributing to the supply of critical minerals and supporting the electrification of society through the deployment of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs). The equipment provided by Sandvik will enable a more sustainable and economical mining operation at the Hermosa project, which is set to become a key producer of federally designated critical minerals like manganese and zinc in the United States.
The Hermosa project, developed by Australian-based multinational South32, aims to establish a long-term operation focused on zinc-lead-silver deposits, with production expected to commence in 2027. The deployment of electric mining equipment at Hermosa represents a significant step towards achieving a more sustainable and environmentally friendly mining operation.
Deliveries of the electric mining equipment are scheduled to begin in 2026 and continue through 2030, with the majority of the orders expected to be fulfilled by 2027. This phased approach will ensure a smooth transition to electric mining equipment and maximize the operational benefits of these advanced machines.
The adoption of electric mining equipment is part of a broader trend towards electrification in the mining industry, driven by the increasing demand for critical minerals and the benefits of transitioning to cleaner energy sources. Companies like Sandvik are at the forefront of this transition, showcasing the capabilities of electric equipment in moving earth and extracting valuable minerals from the ground.
As the demand for electric mining equipment continues to grow, the industry is likely to see a shift towards more autonomous technologies to address the persistent operator shortage. The combination of rising demand for critical minerals, the benefits of electrification, and the need for autonomous solutions is driving the rapid evolution of the mining equipment market.
In conclusion, the record order for electric mining equipment at South32’s Hermosa project marks a significant milestone in the transition towards sustainable mining practices. The deployment of advanced electric equipment by Sandvik demonstrates the industry’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact and embracing cleaner energy solutions. This shift towards electrification and autonomy in mining operations is poised to reshape the industry and drive further innovation in the years ahead.
