Energy costs are a large part of a mine’s total operating costs and South African mining companies are looking at innovative ways to reduce dependency on grid power, increase productivity, reduce operating costs, and be more environment friendly, says energy solutions provider First National Battery.

“While renewable and solar energy solutions can make a massive impact and save the mining industry millions in electricity costs, it does require robust, quality battery solutions to ensure energy is stored and seamlessly available on demand," says First National Battery MD Murray Long.

Renewable and solar energy applications all require battery solutions to store power and the type of battery used depends on the amount of power that is required, weather conditions, and space availability. In addition, uninterruptable power supply, or UPS, solutions can provide emergency power during outages, help protect equipment from power interruptions and eliminate spikes and voltage fluctuations. 

Mining operations also require robust traction battery solutions to power locomotives, drill rig machines, scoop batteries, hauler batteries, and mining cap lamps. Traction energy solutions should be manufactured for specific applications and machinery and to the right specifications. In addition, a traction battery should be designed to minimise exposure to the elements and reduce corrosion, to ensure enhanced longevity and performance. First National Battery’s traction batteries comply with DIN specifications, allowing its locomotive batteries to be used in international markets.

Lithium-ion mining cap lamps help ensure that miners have power and lighting underground.  First National Battery miner’s cap lamps are available in different models, namely the 16 Ah accumulator with incandescent bulb headpiece and 4 Ah accumulator with LED headpiece. The company also provides training and consultation to ensure that miners have the skills to maintain equipment, enhance safety and prevent downtime.

While lithium-ion power solutions appear to be paving the way toward renewable energy, conventional industrial and vehicle battery solutions are still essential for the mining industry. First National Battery supplies a range of locally produced solutions for vehicle fleets, locomotives, forklifts, standby power, renewable energy, and solar energy.