BHP has marked a significant milestone in its efforts to decarbonize operations by launching its first electric excavator fleet at the Yandi iron ore mine in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. This development highlights BHP’s commitment to integrating advanced technologies and underscores the role of Liebherr, a leading global equipment manufacturer, in supporting this transition.
The new fleet features Liebherr’s R 9400 E electric excavator, which replaces the traditional diesel engine with an electric motor powered by a trailing cable. The excavator is equipped with Liebherr’s autonomous cable reeler, enhancing both productivity and operator safety by ensuring optimal on-site mobility.
Tim Day, President of BHP’s Western Australia Iron Ore (WAIO) assets, emphasized the importance of reducing diesel usage to meet the company’s environmental targets. BHP aims to cut its operational greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by at least 30% by fiscal 2030 (from adjusted 2020 levels) and to achieve net zero operational GHG emissions by 2050.
“Electrification of our fleet is a key strategy to reduce our reliance on diesel and lower GHG emissions,” Day said. “We are committed to transitioning our equipment—from trucks to trains to excavators—to electric power. Partnerships with innovators like Liebherr are crucial for advancing the technology needed to cut diesel emissions and enhance operational safety and productivity.”
Liebherr-Australia’s Executive General Manager of Sales and Marketing, Brian Boitano, praised the partnership with BHP, stating, “The R 9400 E exemplifies Liebherr’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge zero-emission solutions for the mining industry. We are excited to collaborate with BHP to integrate our electric excavators into their operations and support their decarbonization journey.”
The Yandi iron ore mine, part of an 85/15 joint venture between BHP and Japan’s Mitsui and ITOCHU, achieved a major milestone in 2017 as the second WA-based iron ore mine to produce over one billion tonnes of ore. The ore from Yandi is processed on-site and transported by rail to Port Hedland for export to key markets in Asia.
