April 1, 2021

Nouveau Monde’s Electrifying Vision: The Journey to All-Electric Open-Pit Mining

In the realm of industrial electrification, Canada stands at the forefront, showcasing remarkable strides in battery research, electric vehicles, and a thriving hydrogen sector. However, one sector has remained tethered to fossil fuel solutions – open-pit mining. Nouveau Monde Graphites (NMG) is challenging this norm with a bold vision outlined in their 2020 Annual Report: to establish the world’s first all-electric open-pit mine. This visionary pursuit is not just about innovation; it’s a commitment to sustainability, transforming the mining landscape by sourcing and transforming carbon-neutral graphite materials.

Early Challenges and Commitment:

David Lyon, Director of Electrification and Automation at Nouveau Monde, sheds light on the initial challenges faced during the early adoption of battery technology in mining settings. Being an early adopter demanded collaboration with equipment manufacturers, pushing them to develop solutions years before operations commenced in 2018. The company’s commitment to an all-electric future was no small feat; it required a convincing business case and a proactive engagement with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs)

Call for Pre-Qualification:

In a pivotal move towards realizing their vision, Nouveau Monde issued a call for pre-qualification in November 2020, signaling the start of a transformative journey. Seeking an initial fleet of 60 all-electric vehicles, the selection process prioritized efficiency, durability, and performance, with an eye on gradually phasing out diesel equipment as new commercial technology emerged. The goal was clear: to prove that going electric could not only be feasible but also economically and environmentally beneficial.

Transparency for Sustainable Development:

Nouveau Monde took a groundbreaking approach by releasing the complete scope and specifications of their future fleet. This transparent gesture aimed to share the knowledge garnered over four years, encouraging peers and competitors alike to embrace sustainable mining standards. The company’s commitment extends beyond its own operations – it embodies sustainable development by fostering responsible solutions and bringing together stakeholders from various horizons.

Innovative Partnerships:

Recognizing that true transformation requires collaboration, Nouveau Monde joined forces with Propulsion Québec, the National Research Council (NRC), Adria Power Systems, Dana TM4, and Fournier et fils. Together, they are developing a new electric propulsion system and rapid recharging infrastructure tailored to heavy vehicles in open-pit mining. Nouveau Monde’s role as an enabler in the zero-emission heavy-duty operations is a testament to their dedication to driving industry-wide change.

Influence on the Industry:

Nouveau Monde’s advocacy for all-electric solutions has reverberated across the mining industry. Major companies have announced sustainability and carbon-neutrality targets, with a preference for all-electric solutions. The company’s proactive stance and its ‘little but loud’ voice have played a role in steering OEMs towards solutions that not only work for the industry but also for projects like Matawinie.

Conclusions

Whether it’s lithium-ion batteries, plug-in systems, or hydrogen fuel cells, Nouveau Monde’s Matawinie mine is on track to welcome zero-carbon equipment as early as 2021. By challenging industry norms, fostering transparency, and driving collaborative innovation, Nouveau Monde is not just transforming its operations – it’s paving the way for a sustainable and electrified future in open-pit mining.

To delve deeper into Nouveau Monde’s electrifying vision, explore their 2020 Annual Report. The journey to all-electric open-pit mining is unfolding, and Nouveau Monde invites you to be a part of this transformative narrative.