ABB: Chile leads the way in electric and sustainable mining

Speaking with Reporte Minero, Braun described Chile as a natural host for the event, citing the country’s forward-thinking mining companies and its largely renewable energy matrix.

At the first Latin American edition of The Electric Mine conference, held at Centro Parque in Santiago, Joaquín Braun, Division President of Process Industries at ABB, underscored Chile’s key role in the electrification of mining operations and the broader global energy transition.

Speaking with Reporte Minero, Braun described Chile as a natural host for the event, citing the country’s forward-thinking mining companies and its largely renewable energy matrix. “Chile is ahead of the curve when it comes to decarbonization and mine electrification, and it has the added advantage of abundant clean energy,” he stated.

Latin America’s Role in the Energy Transition

When asked about Latin America’s strategic importance, Braun highlighted that the region holds a significant portion of the world’s copper and lithium reserves—critical minerals for clean technologies. “If these minerals aren’t extracted here sustainably, the entire green value chain is compromised,” he warned.

ABB’s E-Mine Vision

ABB’s strategy to support mining’s sustainability goals is encapsulated in its e-mine concept, aimed at fully electrifying mining operations. Braun explained that electrifying haul trucks is a top priority, as they are major sources of emissions. To support this shift, ABB offers integrated automation and digitalization solutions that help miners manage the new complexities of electric operations.

Challenges and Business Sense

One of the key challenges, Braun noted, is ensuring reliable access to electrical power—less of an issue in Chile, but a concern in other regions. He also pointed out that sustainability must make business sense. “Mining is a commodity business, and companies aren’t paid more for mining sustainably. That’s why our solutions focus on efficiency as well,” he said.

A Local and Collaborative Approach

With Chile taking a pioneering role, ABB is strengthening its local presence and partnerships in the country. “We’re deeply connected with the mining ecosystem here, and we’re impressed by how Chilean companies are driving innovation,” Braun noted.

He concluded by stressing the importance of collaboration: “No single company can solve this alone. ABB is working closely with startups, universities, suppliers, and customers to make sustainable mining a reality.”