An Overview of Microgrids Challenges in the Mining Industry

• Main Authors: Juan S. Gomez, Jose Rodriguez, Cristian Garcia, Luca Tarisciotti, Freddy Flores-Bahamonde, Javier Pereda, Felipe Nunez, Aldo Z. Cipriano, Juan Carlos Salas
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: IEEE 2020-01-01
• Series: IEEE Access
• Subjects: Mining industry; microgrids; power quality; energy management system; renewable energies
• Online Access: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/9229426/

The transition from fossil fuels to renewable energies as power sources in the heavy industries is one of the main climate change mitigation strategies. The carbon footprint in mining is related to its inherent extraction process, its high demand of electric power and water, and the use of diesel. However, considering its particular power requirements, the integration of microgrids throughout the whole control hierarchy of mining industry is an emergent topic. This paper provides an overview of the opportunities and challenges derived from the synergy between microgrids and the mining industry. Bidirectional and optimal power flow, as well as the integration of power quality have been identified as microgrid features that could potentially enhance mining processes. Recommendations pertaining to the technological transition and the improvement of energy issues in mining environments are also highlighted in this work.