Decarbonization in mining starts today

The mining industry is at a pivotal moment, with leading companies across the globe committing to ambitious goals to drastically cut greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. At the heart of this transformative era is Cummins Inc., which is a trusted partner of miners to help reduce carbon and greenhouse gas emissions and move towards greener operations. With Cummins, miners can make significant strides today. The interim steps outlined in this article can help miners achieve near-term sustainability goals while longer-term solutions are developed by reliable partners like Cummins.

Three avenues miners can pursue today

• Upgrading to Tier 4 engines: Cummins has been instrumental in the advancement of powertrains and power solutions to comply with key emissions regulations. The typical Cummins engine used in mining applications today emits 90% fewer harmful gases than those produced before 2000. This significant reduction demonstrates Cummins' commitment to environmental stewardship without compromising on power and efficiency. Miners can achieve this reduction when purchasing new equipment with Tier 4 engines, or even through engine rebuilds, where an HPI fuel system is upgraded to the MCRS fuel system. This upgrade program delivers all the benefits of a brand-new engine, including improved fuel economy, lower emissions, extended overhaul timeline and reduced operating noise.  
• Utilizing cleaner fuels: With all industrial high-horsepower Cummins engines today, miners that use hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) (EN15940) to power their equipment and operations can potentially cut net well-to-wheels greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90% compared to traditional diesel, depending on the specific feedstock and fuel pathway used.
• Microgrids and green energy: Microgrids are becoming an essential component in the mining industry's shift toward sustainable operations. These localized grids can operate independently from the traditional grid and are capable of balancing the energy supply with the mine's demand, leveraging renewable energy sources. Microgrids can play a transformative role in powering various facets of mining operations, including ore processing, powering tethered equipment, general power requirements for lighting, ventilation and heating/cooling, and even charging infrastructure for future EV fleets.

The road to decarbonization in the mining industry will be long and winding, but with Cummins' support, immediate and impactful actions are within reach. Upgrading to Tier 4 engines, opting for cleaner fuels, and investing in microgrids are tangible steps miners can take today. 

These actions are not mere stopgaps but are foundational elements of a broader strategy to achieve a greener future. As mining companies embark on this transformative journey, Cummins stands ready as a partner in innovation, guiding the industry towards a more sustainable future. Contact your local Cummins’ sales office today to learn more about realizing more sustainable mining operations.