BHP’s first electric excavator fleet up and running at Australia iron ore mine

BHP has taken another important step in its operational decarbonization journey, with the global miner powering up its first electric excavator fleet at the Yandi iron ore mine in the Pilbara, Western Australia.

This milestone not only underscores BHP’s commitment to adopting cutting-edge technologies, but also highlights the role of Liebherr, one of the world’s biggest equipment manufacturers, as a trusted solutions provider within the mining sector.

Instead of a diesel engine, Liebherr’s R 9400 E electric excavator has an electric motor, with power fed to the machine by a trailing cable. Equipped with Liebherr’s autonomous cable reeler for optimal on-site mobility, this innovation boosts productivity and operator safety.

Western Australia Iron Ore (WAIO) asset president Tim Day said reducing diesel was key to helping the group achieve its medium-term target to reduce operational greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (Scopes 1 and 2) by at least 30% by fiscal 2030 (from adjusted 2020 levels) – and ultimately its long-term goal of net zero operational GHG emissions by 2050.

“Electrification of our fleet is our preferred solution to displace greenhouse gas emissions from using diesel – from trucks to trains to excavators – we’re working hard to electrify our equipment,” Day said.

“Collaborations with partners like Liebherr are critical to accelerate development of the technology required to reduce diesel emissions, while ensuring we continue to improve the safety and productivity of our operations.”

Brian Boitano, executive general manager of sales and marketing at Liebherr-Australia, said: “The R 9400 E is a testament to Liebherr’s dedication to providing innovative and efficient zero emission solutions for the mining sector.

“We are thrilled to partner with BHP, a forward-thinking industry leader, to introduce our proven electric excavators into their operations and to help them move forward in their decarbonization journey.”

The Yandi iron ore mine is a part of an 85/15 joint venture between BHP and Japan’s Mitsui and ITOCHU. In 2017, it became the second WA-based iron ore mine to achieve a billion tonnes of ore produced in its lifetime. Ore from the Yandi open cut mine is processed on site and taken to Port Hedland by rail for export to key markets in Asia.