CEEC International Announces Winner of 2023 CEEC Medal for Technical Research - Groundbreaking Study on Renewable Energy-Powered Mining Wins Prestigious Award
CEEC International is delighted to announce that the 2023 CEEC Medal for Technical Research has been awarded to the authors of the paper titled "Can We Shift to a New Paradigm of Flexibility in Mining and Processing to Build Mines Powered Exclusively by the Variable Input of Renewables?" This innovative research was presented at the World Mining Congress held from June 26-29, 2023, in Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
The winning paper is a collaborative effort by Prof. Malcolm Powell (FAusIMM, FSAIMM) from the Sustainable Minerals Institute at the University of Queensland, Andy Reynolds from Inspire Resources, Shannon McCrae from Novamera, Jenny Agnew, Ryan Bracey, Dr. David Way, from Sedgman, Craig Phasey from EnergyFlex, Thomas Littlechild, and Dave Manning from Juwi Renewable Energy.
Each year the CEEC Medal aims to celebrate and recognise the contribution that research and field work plays in improving energy-efficiency, water management, and emissions reductions globally.
This study explores the viability of transitioning from the accepted business model of continuous operation under an unconstrained energy supply to a model powered by variable renewable energy sources. The research demonstrates that mines can operate viably with solar power supplemented by additional renewable energy and storage solutions. This shift requires a radical change in mindset, embracing mine-wide integrated flexible processing with adaptive equipment that operates efficiently under varying loads while maintaining high mineral recovery.
On winning the Medal, lead author Prof. Malcolm Powell, shared his gratitude for the recognition, "The enthusiastic voluntary participation of the Think & Act Differently (TAD) cohort who contributed many hours and enlightening discussions to this concept study is richly rewarded through CEEC recognition. We hope to ignite industry engagement in meaningful technical transformation to massively reduce our environmental impact as we power better societies."
The co-authors expressed their collective enthusiasm and pride in receiving the CEEC Medal for Technical Research, highlighting the collaborative nature and innovative spirit of the project. They emphasised the importance of global cooperation, practical applications, and sustainable solutions, hoping this recognition will inspire more industry-wide collaborations and advancements in mining and processing powered by renewable energy.
Grant Ballantyne, Chair of the Medal Evaluation Committee praised the authors' work: "This research represents a significant shift in the mining industry's approach to energy use and sustainability. The authors have demonstrated not only the technical feasibility but also the transformative potential of integrating renewable energy sources into mining operations. Their work exemplifies the innovation and forward-thinking that the CEEC Medal aims to recognise."
CEEC International extends sincere congratulations to the authors for their significant contribution to the field of mineral processing and sustainable mining practices.
For more information about the CEEC Medal and the award-winning paper, please visit CEEC International's website: www.ceecthefuture.org.