Responsible management of retired mining vehicle batteries to address environmental and economic challenges ​

The Challenge

Electrification of mining vehicles, including haul trucks, is an important step towards making the mining industry more sustainable and meeting net-zero targets. With the increasing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in mining, the management of retired EV batteries poses a significant environmental and economic challenge. Recycling is not sustainable or environmentally friendly. Australia currently recycles only 10% of its lithium batteries.

Retired EV batteries can still retain about 70% capacity. These batteries are too valuable to be discarded and can be repurposed as battery energy storage systems (BESSs). Such systems can store renewable energy, stabilise power grids, and even serve as portable power units for remote communities and mining operations.

Retired EV batteries suffer from cell imbalancing, which not only leads to inefficient BESS outputs but also raises fire safety concerns. By developing advanced AI-driven cell reconfiguration techniques, this project aims to minimise imbalance cells and reduce safety and efficiency concerns.

Proposed Solution

This project aims to repurpose retired mining vehicle (e.g., haul trucks) batteries for battery energy storage systems in mining operations and communities. Leveraging AI models, the research will reduce cell imbalances in retired batteries, maximising efficiency and safety. The project aligns with MRIWA’s goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the mining industry.

Proposed Benefits to WA

This research will provide significant environmental, economic and social benefits to Western Australia by enabling the reuse of retired batteries from mining vehicles.

Economically, it reduces costs associated with purchasing new batteries and creates a secondary market for selling retired batteries. Environmentally, it lowers the carbon footprint by extending battery lifespans, reducing the risk of battery fires or explosions and reducing waste generated from premature recycling. The reuse of batteries in energy storage systems also supports the transition to renewable energy.

Socially, the research will promote energy security and sustainability, particularly in remote mining communities, by providing cost-effective and reliable energy storage solutions. These outcomes align with Western Australia’s push for more sustainable mining operations and energy utilization, ultimately benefiting both industry and local communities.