The energy transition in mining is no longer a distant goal – it’s happening now. And the combination of electrification, digitalisation and collaboration is proving to be a powerful formula for success across operations of all sizes.
Schneider Electric, a global leader in energy management and automation, is working with mining companies – from major producers to regional operators – to accelerate their shift toward low-carbon, digitally integrated operations, it says. The company’s modular, scalable solutions are helping mines reduce emissions, improve productivity and future-proof their infrastructure.
Making electrification accessible
Schneider Electric’s Energy-as-a-Service model is helping mining operations overcome capital barriers by offering flexible financial options that make electrification economically viable, according to the company. Its open architecture ensures compatibility across diverse systems, while localised support networks provide practical, on-the-ground expertise.
Whether it’s integrating renewables, deploying microgrids, or digitising water management, Schneider Electric’s approach is built to meet the unique challenges of Australian mining – including remote locations, grid constraints and water scarcity.
A lifecycle approach to resilience
From early design to ongoing optimisation, Schneider Electric partners with mining clients across the full asset lifecycle. Predictive maintenance tools and continuous monitoring help maintain uptime and resilience during the transition to electric systems.
The company’s Materialise program also extends sustainability efforts beyond the mine gate, working with critical mineral suppliers to reduce emissions and promote circular economy principles.
Powering the electric mine
Reliable energy supply remains a key challenge, especially for off-grid or remote sites. Schneider Electric says it is addressing this with advanced microgrid technology, energy storage and intelligent load management to ensure stable, resilient power while reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Renewable energy integration is central to the company’s vision, with solar, wind and storage systems supported by intelligent energy management platforms that optimise consumption and reduce carbon intensity.
Electrification also improves water efficiency by reducing cooling needs and enabling advanced digital water recycling, which is critical in regions facing water stress.
The future is software-defined
The company concluded: “Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure platform is helping mining operations synchronise energy use with operational demand, enabling real-time visibility and control across sites. This software-defined approach reduces carbon footprints, lowers costs and enhances agility – giving mining teams the tools to lead in a volatile, fast-changing world.
“An electric mine isn’t just about zero emissions – it’s about smarter, more connected operations that empower people and protect resources. We’re proud to be helping the industry build a more sustainable future – one site, one system, one step at a time.”
Schneider Electric will have a presence at IMARC 2025 next week in Sydney. International Mining is a media sponsor of the event
