Antofagasta PLC Leads the Way with South America's First Hydrogen-Powered Locomotive
Key Ideas
- Antofagasta PLC's FCAB unveiled South America's first hydrogen-powered locomotive, marking a significant step in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainability in mining.
- The locomotive, powered by renewable hydrogen, aligns with Antofagasta's goals to replace diesel fuel, reduce carbon emissions by 30% by 2035, and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
- The 1,000-kilowatt locomotive, developed by CRRC Qishuyan, features a high-capacity battery, a 35 MPa on-board hydrogen storage system, and a lightweight design to enhance efficiency.
- Chile's Minister of Economy praised FCAB's initiative, highlighting its contribution to decarbonisation in freight industry and sustainable economic growth, showcasing the project's positive impact.
Antofagasta PLC's Transport Division, Ferrocarril de Antofagasta a Bolivia (FCAB), has introduced the first hydrogen-powered locomotive in Chile and South America, setting a significant milestone in the company's pursuit of sustainable alternatives and reduced greenhouse gas emissions in the mining sector. The locomotive, fueled by hydrogen produced from renewable sources, is scheduled to commence operations in 2025 as part of Antofagasta's strategy to phase out diesel fuel and diminish its carbon footprint. The move follows Antofagasta's recent integration of the largest fleet of electric pick-up trucks in the Chilean mining industry at its Centinela mine.
Embracing the global energy transition, Antofagasta aims to slash Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions by 30% by 2035 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. The 1,000-kilowatt locomotive, a creation of CRRC Qishuyan, boasts a powerful battery, a 35 MPa on-board hydrogen storage system, and a lightweight construction that reduces its weight significantly compared to other hydrogen locomotives. Antofagasta's CEO, Iván Arriagada, praised the milestone as a leap in innovation and emphasized the environmental benefits of hydrogen as a fuel that only emits water vapour and hot air.
The company's General Manager, David Fernández, highlighted the dedication to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change by exploring diverse technologies. The Minister of Economy of Chile, Nicolás Grau, commended FCAB for embracing new technologies to drive decarbonisation in the freight sector and strengthen its ties with the mining industry, envisioning sustainable economic growth. FCAB has already secured a hydrogen supply for 2024 and is finalizing preparations for the new locomotive installation, including personnel training for operation and maintenance. This groundbreaking development establishes Antofagasta as a trailblazer in South America by utilizing hydrogen-powered locomotives, showcasing its commitment to progress and sustainability.
Topics
South America
Renewable Energy
Technology
Innovation
Sustainability
Decarbonisation
Mining Industry
Economic Growth
Carbon Footprint
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