BHP has taken a significant step forward in its operational decarbonisation journey, announcing two memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with global battery technology leaders.
The partnerships with FinDreams Battery (FDB) and Contemporary Amperex Technology (CATL) are aimed at accelerating the electrification of BHP’s mining operations as the company works towards its target of net zero operational greenhouse gas emissions (Scopes 1 and 2 from operated assets) by 2050.
FDB, a wholly owned subsidiary of BYD Group, is a global leader in commercial and energy storage batteries.
Under the MoU, BHP and FDB will collaborate on powertrain battery solutions for heavy mining equipment and locomotives, alongside flash-charging infrastructure.
The partnership will also explore the potential use of BYD’s commercial and light electric vehicles across mining applications.
“This relationship is a further step towards BHP meeting our decarbonisation ambitions for our operations and helping to drive transformative change within the global resources industry,” BHP group procurement officer Rashpal Bhatti said.
“BYD is a leader in their field and at the cutting-edge of what’s possible in battery technology and advanced manufacturing and has already made significant progress with electric vehicles.
“By joining forces with industry leaders (like BYD) we are seeking solutions to help shape a more productive and more sustainable resources industry of the future.”
General manager of FDB’s global commercial vehicle business unit Jack Li said the signing of this MoU represents a pivotal milestone, not only for FDB’s commitment to advancing the low-carbon revolution but also for accelerating decarbonisation across the global resources sector.
“We recognise BHP as a true industry leader, with an aspirational vision to achieve net-zero operational greenhouse gas emissions – a strategy that aligns with our mission,” he said.
Meanwhile, the MoU with CATL will focus on battery development for mining equipment, energy storage systems and enhancing circularity through recycling initiatives.
This includes exploring synergies with BHP’s copper operations to create more sustainable supply chains.
“This strategic relationship marks further progress in BHP’s work to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from our operations and enable support for further developments within the global resources sector,” Bhatti said.
“CATL is a global leader in advanced battery technology, energy storage solutions, and battery recycling and is a natural partner for BHP.
“Working with organisations such as CATL, BHP is continuing to seek solutions that can drive a more efficient and sustainable future for the resources industry.
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