BHP and Komatsu partner for zero emissions target by 2050

The leading-edge technology partnership will develop commercially viable zero-emission haul trucks with BHP to pioneer the roll out.

BHP will pioneer new leading-edge technology in its mission toward zero-emission operations as a founding member of Komatsu’s GHG Alliance.

The partnership aims to develop commercially viable zero-greenhouse gas emissions haul trucks and, as a founding member, BHP will become the first to operate one of the trucks on commercial release.

BHP and Komatsu will collaborate through the BHP FutureFit Academy in Mackay to develop the future skills teams need to operate and maintain this pioneering equipment.

“The FutureFit Academy is creating new pathways into the mining sector through fast-tracked mining apprenticeships and traineeships, backed by nationally recognised curricula,” BHP operations services vice president Matt Furrer said.

“As we accelerate our push to become a net-zero operator by 2050, it’s exciting to join Komatsu’s GHG Alliance which aims to develop commercially viable zero-greenhouse gas emissions haul trucks.

“The skills to work on and maintain these future trucks could be developed, taught and refined at our FutureFit Academy.

“Having a FutureFit Academy in Mackay just down the road from Komatsu’s depot presents many opportunities to collaborate.”

Mackay is home to BHP’s FutureFit Academy and a Komatsu customer support facility, positioning Central Queensland to be a hub for leading innovation and the next generation of mining technology.

BHP will provide engineering and technical resources to Komatsu to support the development phase as required.

These activities will provide BHP with real-time access to technology in development, with Komatsu drawing upon BHP’s mining expertise to accelerate its path to market.

BHP chief commercial officer Vandita Pant said tackling climate change required strong collaboration and a collective effort across the supply chain.

“Reducing vehicle emissions is key to our climate strategy, and we are thrilled to join with Komatsu and our peers in the global mining sector on real, tangible action to help accelerate our transition to a low carbon future,” she said.

“Extending the FutureFit Academy partnership to equip our workforce to operate zero emissions technology is an exciting addition to our collaboration with Komatsu.”

BHP’s group procurement officer James Agar said the company was “excited by the opportunity”.

“This collaboration is a great example of the partnership approach we are taking in our supply chain as we work towards BHP’s goal of net zero operational emissions by 2050,” he said.