Antofagasta Leads Innovation with South America's First Hydrogen-Powered Locomotive
Key Ideas
- Antofagasta's FCAB division introduces the first hydrogen-powered locomotive in South America, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainability in mining.
- The company's broader strategy includes replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy sources, such as hydrogen, and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
- The innovative 1,000-kW locomotive, developed by CRRC Qishuyan, features clean emissions, a lightweight design, and high-capacity hydrogen storage, setting a new standard for eco-friendly transportation.
- Local authorities, including Chile's Minister of Economy, applaud the initiative, emphasizing the importance of new technologies for decarbonisation and sustainable economic development in the mining and freight sectors.
Chile-based copper miner Antofagasta's transport division, FCAB, has revealed South America's inaugural hydrogen-powered locomotive, scheduled to operate by 2025. The locomotive, powered by hydrogen generated through renewable sources, is part of Antofagasta's mission to transition from fossil fuels, reduce emissions, and boost sustainability in mining. Previously, the company introduced the largest fleet of electric pick-up trucks in Chile's mining industry at its Centinela mine. The hydrogen locomotive aligns with Antofagasta's goal to slash Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions by 30% by 2035 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Equipped with a 35 MPa on-board hydrogen storage system and a high-capacity battery, the 1,000-kW locomotive stands out for its clean emissions profile and lightweight construction, promoting eco-friendly transportation. The CEO, Iván Arriagada, lauded the innovation as a leap forward and emphasized learning about the fuel's emission-free nature. Praising the initiative, Chile's Minister of Economy, Nicolás Grau, highlighted the significance of new technologies for sustainable growth in mining and freight. FCAB is preparing for the locomotive's deployment by securing hydrogen supply until 2024, upgrading facilities, and training personnel for operations and maintenance.
Topics
Africa
Renewable Energy
Technology
Innovation
Sustainability
Electric Vehicles
Mining Industry
Carbon Neutrality
Economic Growth
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