The Dugald River Zinc Mine in northwest Queensland, owned by mid-tier miner MMG Ltd, is championing a shift to renewable energy, marking a significant step in sustainable mining practices.
The mine, traditionally powered by the gas-fired Diamantina Power Station, has embraced solar energy, becoming a foundation customer of the Dugald River Solar Farm near Mount Isa.
This solar farm, which became operational last March, now supplies a third of the mine's energy needs, reducing carbon emissions by 33%.
The mine’s general manager Tim Akroyd emphasised the importance of this transition saying, “It’s a substantial power saving... and the next step is another renewable source, with wind being a promising option.”
A feasibility study is underway to assess wind energy's potential, leveraging the region's strong night winds.
Initial measurements using radar technology show promise, with wind complementing solar power for around-the-clock renewable energy generation. However, the mine still relies on gas-fired backup power due to the absence of battery storage.
Dugald River aims to meet 75% of its energy needs through renewables. This aligns with the region's broader energy transformation, fuelled by the upcoming CopperString 2032 project, which will connect northwest Queensland to the national electricity grid and attract further renewable investments.
University of Southern Queensland associate professor Andreas Helwig called the mine's efforts “a positive move”, noting the potential for similar initiatives in other mining operations. However, he stressed the need to address end-of-life issues for renewable infrastructure.
The feasibility study is expected to conclude mid-year, with wind project construction anticipated to begin by the end of the year.