Mining giant Rio Tinto has unveiled a groundbreaking new solar power plant at the Diavik Diamond Mine, set to significantly cut down on diesel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. This could be a game-changer for mining sustainability—here's why.
Canada's Largest Off-Grid Solar Power Plant Is Up and Running
Located in Canada’s Northwest Territories, this 3.5 MW solar power plant is the largest off-grid solar facility in the country. Made up of 6,620 solar panels, it’s expected to generate 4.2 million kWh of clean energy every year, slashing Diavik’s diesel use by 1 million liters annually and reducing CO2 emissions by 2,900 tons—that’s the equivalent of taking 630 cars off the road every year!
Harnessing Solar Energy—Even in the Snow
The Diavik mine is snow-covered for most of the year, but the new solar facility is built with bifacial solar panels that can generate power from both direct sunlight and reflected light from the snow. Even as the mine moves towards closing, the solar plant will continue to provide up to 25% of Diavik's power, helping ensure a greener shutdown process. The mine is expected to cease commercial production in 2026, with closure extending until 2029.
Adding to Diavik’s Clean Energy Success
This solar facility builds on Diavik’s previous clean energy efforts, including its wind power plant, which began operating in 2012. The wind farm is the largest of its kind in Northern Canada, having generated over 195 million kWh since its launch.
Matthew Breen, Chief Operating Officer at Diavik, said, "This is our latest commitment to the environment in which we live and work, improving the energy efficiency of our operations. We are proud to lead the way for large-scale renewable energy projects in Northern Canada."
Rio Tinto’s Big Green Plan—And Why It Matters
Rio Tinto is pushing for decarbonization across its global operations, aiming to cut Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. The solar power plant project received CAD 3.3 million (approximately USD 2.42 million) in funding from the Northwest Territories’ "Large Emitters GHG Reducing Investment Grant Program," marking a significant step towards a cleaner mining industry.
Could Solar Be the Future of Diamond Mining?
This solar power project isn’t just a win for the environment—it’s a statement that sustainable energy and heavy industry can coexist. With solar and wind energy leading the way, Diavik is proving that even in the harsh conditions of Northern Canada, a cleaner future is possible.