Can solar power be used in high-temperature mining?

While current concentrated solar power, wind, and solar PV technology can provide cost-effective thermal energy in favorable renewable energy resource areas above 400 ° C, most high-temperature-energy-intensive mining activities require temperatures beyond those achieved by current commercially available concentrated solar power.

Are solar mining operations a good fit for the solar industry?

From the solar industry perspective mining operations are a good fit, because: High energy consumption carries potential for large-scale solar power plants. Solar power can add value to mines for grid-connected and off-grid mines. Mining companies often have to deal with high energy costs due to remote locations.

Can a large-scale photovoltaic energy penetration lead to a sustainable copper mining industry?

In the case of electric powered-processes, it could be assumed that a large-scale photovoltaic energy penetration with traditional PV plants into electric grids feeding mining plants, is the straightforward solution towards a more sustainable copper mining industry. This is certainly a viable option, with available off-the-shelf PV technology.

Should solar energy programs be initiated in the mining sector?

Solar energy programs in the mining sector should be initiated in order to improve the environmental awareness of all relevant stakeholders, so that they can grasp the advantages and disadvantages. Nevertheless, solar energy presents an excellent opportunity for mining companies in their energy management and business development.

Does solar power add value to mines?

Solar power can add value to mines for grid-connected and off-grid mines. Mining companies often have to deal with high energy costs due to remote locations. Moreover, mining companies in developing countries have to deal with unreliable electricity infrastructure, which makes it receptive for new solutions.

How can solar energy help the mining industry?

Other alternatives Solar energy can satisfy the mining industry in terms of heat, electricity, fuels, and water. In tailings, PV is an important candidate to improve tailings management and increase water recovery by up to 90%. It can be used to recirculate water from tailings dams to the copper concentrate plants.