Canada’s mining companies prioritize innovative and environmentally responsible ways to extract the minerals and metals used every day by Canadians across the country. Since 2012, Rio Tinto, one of the Mining Association of Canada’s (MAC) members, has seen the results that can come from renewable energy sources through its pioneering wind farm at the award-winning Diavik Diamond Mine.
This $31 million project is Rio Tinto’s first wind generation facility and also holds the distinction of being the first large-scale wind farm in Canada’s Northwest Territories. It uses leading edge cold climate technology to overcome the problem of industrial lubricants freezing in sub-Arctic conditions. As a renewable energy source, the wind farm is exceeding targets and providing around 10% of the mine’s power needs. In addition to its role in producing much needed power, the wind farm also reduces Diavik’s seasonal winter road fuel haul by approximately 100 loads.
As a MAC member, Rio Tinto follows the principles set out in the Towards Sustainable Mining® program, and through its Diavik Diamond Mine, is putting TSM’s focus on environmentally sustainable mining practices, into action. With innovation and low-carbon energy coming together to achieve award winning results, the future is bright, and sustainable, for Canada’s mining sector.
