Antofagasta First Company to Run Hydrogen-Powered Locomotive

Antofagasta PLC, a leading Chilean copper producer, is set to make history by becoming the first mining company in South America to utilize a hydrogen-powered locomotive. This groundbreaking initiative, undertaken by its rail transport division, FCAB, underscores the company's dedication to sustainable mining practices and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The hydrogen-powered train, developed by China's CRRC Qishuyan, is designed to transport essential mining materials between Antofagasta city and the regional port starting in 2025. This innovative technology offers a significant advantage over traditional diesel locomotives, as it emits only water vapor and hot air, significantly reducing the carbon footprint of the mining operations.

The hydrogen-powered locomotive boasts a high-capacity battery for efficient energy storage and delivery, coupled with a 35 MPa on-board hydrogen storage system ensuring a reliable and sustainable fuel source. Its lightweight design, approximately 30 tonnes lighter than other hydrogen models, further enhances energy efficiency.

The deployment of this hydrogen-powered locomotive aligns with Antofagasta's broader sustainability goals. The company aims to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2035 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

Iván Arriagada, CEO of Antofagasta, emphasized the significance of this milestone, stating, "This will allow us to learn about this new fuel, which only emits water vapor and hot air, unlike diesel. We want to explore other possible uses of this fuel in the future, when the technology is more mature."

David Fernández, General Manager of FCAB, further highlighted the environmental benefits of the initiative, saying, "Our commitment to the community of Antofagasta and to our clients means we explore all available technologies to progressively reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and, in this way, contribute to combating climate change."

Antofagasta's commitment to sustainability extends beyond the hydrogen-powered locomotive. The company has implemented several other initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, including electric vehicle fleet which will deploy electric pick-up trucks at the Centinela copper mining complex.

Antofagasta is committed to optimizing energy efficiency through the implementation of systems that reduce energy consumption during the grinding process. Additionally, the company is integrating autonomous trucks into its operations at the New Centinela project. To further accelerate decarbonization efforts, Antofagasta has formed partnerships with tech giants like ABB.

By embracing cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices, Antofagasta is paving the way for a greener future for the mining industry. This pioneering initiative demonstrates the company's dedication to responsible mining and its role in addressing climate change.