Hitachi Energy and BluVein, an innovator in dynamic charging technology, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to electrify heavy haul mining fleets and decarbonize mining operations.
Hitachi Energy's advanced power electronics and digital charging technologies will support BluVein's e-rail charging technology to deliver electricity safely and reliably to haul trucks of up to 400 metric tons during material transportation.
The collaboration will also accelerate the development of a high-powered, fast, and flexible dynamic charging solution for surface and underground mines and quarries in Australia. BluVein will focus on its e-rail and connection of the truck. At the same time, Hitachi Energy will complement these efforts by focusing on advanced power electronics and digital solutions to power and monitor the entire system.
"This strategic collaboration with BluVein will enable our mining customers to trial next-generation dynamic charging solutions vital for achieving net-zero emission targets without compromising on operating practices or productivity,” said Marco Berardi, Head of Grid & Power Quality Solutions and Service Business at Hitachi Energy. “We believe this new collaborative approach will deliver on our common goal to accelerate the transition to all-electric mining and a carbon-neutral future.”
In addition, Hitachi Energy and BluVein will explore the off-vehicle hardware requirements for BluVein 1 for underground and smaller fleets while cooperating on BluVein Proving Grounds - currently under construction in Queensland, Australia.
