Aggreko provides 60MW power package
to ensure reliable power for world’s largest copper mine
- Restricted power capacity in northern Chile was
affecting BHP Billiton’s largest copper mine
- Aggreko installed a 60MW power plant along with
catalytic converters to reduce harmful emissions
- The power package has allowed BHP Billiton to continue
its mining operations despite increased power
shortages
XXXX- Aggreko plc, the world leader in the
provision of temporary power and temperature control services has
successfully designed, installed and commissioned a 60MW power
plant for Minera Escondida Ltd (part of the BHP Billiton group) to
provide a back-up power supply for the largest copper mine in the
world, located in northern Chile.
Power capacity from the main utility grid in
northern Chile is currently restricted and can be unreliable. As
the world’s largest copper mine, Minera Escondida could not afford
to allow a lack of grid power to affect either the mining operation
or production capacity. Following an extensive bidding process, the
company contracted Aggreko to provide a turn-key power solution as
part of measures being implemented to avert power outages.
The contract was awarded to Aggreko based on a
number of key factors. The mine’s environmental policies required
the level of nitrous oxide (NOX) produced by the power plant to be
minimised due to the proximity of a nearby village. Aggreko
therefore designed the system to include Selective Catalytic
Reduction (SCR) equipment to be fitted to the generators to address
this environmental consideration. Another key factor was the
ability of Aggreko to deliver a fully operational turn-key solution
within a critical timescale, as the project had to be completed
prior to the onset of winter. Aggreko managed all elements of the
project including design, equipment mobilisation and commissioning,
together with on-site operation and maintenance.
The project has already proven a success for
the client, with back-up power having been utilised over 15 times
for periods between one and five hours. By utilising the Aggreko
power plant rather than stopping or slowing production, BHP
Billiton has been able to continue its mining operations as normal,
reducing financial impact from potential lost production.
“We have chosen to work with Aggreko as they
offered a flexible approach to our requirements and a solution
which could be operational within our deadlines. Also their
reputation and experience of providing reliable power for the
mining industry in Chile led us to award the contract to
Aggreko,” said Felix Vázquez, Mine Services Manager, Minera
Escondida, Chile.
“We are very pleased to be working with Minera
Escondida on a project of this magnitude. Health, safety and
environmental considerations are vitally important to a mining
operation and we have an excellent track record of working with
mining companies around the world to fully understand and meet
these requirements,” said Diogenes Neto, Managing Director
Aggreko South America.