Utilization of solar and wind power-generation systems in the mining industry: recent trends and future prospects

Abstract

In recent years, the mining industry has faced many challenges, such as rising demand, fluctuating energy prices, increasing energy consumption due to declining ore grades, and environmental concerns. According to the Paris Agreement, countries worldwide must focus on decarbonizing their economies to mitigate the global average surface temperature growth. This paper reviews how renewable energy, specifically photovoltaic and wind power systems, can be used to tackle some of these challenges. Operating mines globally, like the South Deep gold mine in South Africa and the MA’ADEN Alumina Refinery in Saudi Arabia, and abandoned mines, such as former coal mines in the USA, Poland, and Germany, repurposed with PV systems, are examples of using renewable energy in the mining sector. Wind power systems were installed in various mines like Seriti Resources mines in South Africa and the Agnew gold mine in Australia. In addition, former coal mines in Scotland, South Africa, and Serbia have changed into wind farms. Integrating renewable energy sources into the mining industry not only mitigates greenhouse gas emissions but also offers economic benefits such as long-term cost savings and energy independence for the mining industry. By using renewable energy, mining companies can prove their commitment to sustainability and adapt to the increasing global attention to a low-carbon future.