Certain mining operations have unusual demand when it comes to power supply. So there are many companies that are now supplementing their mining operations by using solar energy. There is no doubt that this form of energy is a cost cutter and helps to save the other sources of energy from running out.
Reliability
Now we all know that most mines operate round the clock, so the mining operators would expect constant availability and high reliability from the various power systems without any shortfalls. Solar plants with battery banks are able to store a lot of solar energy. Other solar technologies can also be used to generate steam which in turn runs a turbine and produces electricity. These power plants can work well in isolation and are capable of providing services without any problems. The best part is that as a mining operator you do not have to depend on natural gas or diesel. If you are carrying out mining operations in remote places it may be logistically difficult and expensive to transport fuel. Natural gas also has significant financial and logistical challenges.
The importance of solar energy in the mining industry
Certain companies that provide solar energy to the mining industry can integrate fossil fuel, photovoltaic panels and Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) seamlessly. The CSP technology used in mining operations can offer 90% capacity factor. To achieve 100% you may consider using diesel generators to supplement the shortfall. This is by far the most cost effective way to power mining operations. If you run a small mining operation then you could consider using PV solar to bring down the cost of energy and also cut down on the emission of Co2 and you will also reduce dependence on the use of diesel.
Solar energy is indeed a boom to the mining industry
There are many companies out there that provide solar energy to power mining operations but not all of them are reliable. You have to be very cautious about the company you decide to hire. Make sure you will do a thorough due diligence and research project development company that will design and install the system.
There is no doubt that the sun is able to generate huge amount of energy and it is used not only to power homes and appliances but the mining industry is making good use of it. The mining operators will no longer have to depend on the other sources of energy.
