In a bid to decarbonise its mining operations, Hindustan Zinc Ltd (HZL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sandvik AB to introduce battery-powered loaders and trucks in underground mining operations.
Accordingly, the mining company, during the first phase, will deploy battery-electric truck TH550B and LH518B loaders in their underground mines to reduce carbon emissions and make mine operations more environmentally friendly. The company recently added to its fleet of electric vehicles, including electric scooters for security staff, passenger EVs at locations, underground service EV for mines and electric forklifts for transportation of goods.
All these vehicles are in addition to the MoUs that Hindustan Zinc has already signed with Epiroc Rock Drills AB and Normet Group Oy to introduce BEVs in underground mining operations, a press release from the company said. These initiatives will aid Hindustan Zinc in achieving its Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of zero noise pollution, zero harm to the environment, and zero carbon emissions, the company said.
Arun Misra, CEO, HZL, said, “This partnership with Sandvik bring us one step closer to our goal of carbon neutrality.' Aligned with our expansion strategy for battery-electric vehicles, meaning a global reach in 2023, I’m delighted to sign this agreement with Hindustan Zinc to deliver the first battery fleet in India,” said Henrik Ager, President, Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions. “This is a testament to both the pioneering ambitions of Hindustan Zinc and the technological maturity of Sandvik BEV products,” he added.