Mining giant Rio Tinto has unveiled a state-of-the-art solar power plant at its Diavik Diamond Mine in Canada’s Northwest Territories. The facility is set to generate 4.2 million kilowatt-hours of solar energy annually, slashing diesel consumption and significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Canada’s Largest Off-Grid Solar Plant
The newly commissioned 3.5-megawatt solar power plant is the largest off-grid facility of its kind in Canada. Equipped with 6,620 solar panels, it is projected to:
- Reduce diesel usage by 1 million liters annually.
- Cut 2,900 tons of CO₂ emissions per year, equivalent to removing 630 cars from the roads annually.
“This project is our latest commitment to the environment where we live and work,” said Matthew Breen, Diavik’s Chief Operating Officer. “It will enhance energy efficiency at Diavik, setting a benchmark for large-scale renewable energy projects in Canada’s North.”
Harnessing the Power of Arctic Innovation
Despite operating in a snow-covered region for much of the year, the solar plant uses bifacial solar panels, which can generate electricity from both direct sunlight and light reflected off snow. This innovation ensures consistent energy production, even in extreme conditions.
The solar plant will provide up to 25% of Diavik’s energy needs during its closure phase, with commercial operations expected to wind down by 2026 and site closure extending through 2029.
A Sustainable Energy Legacy
The solar initiative builds on Diavik’s earlier renewable energy success. Its wind farm, launched in 2012, remains the largest in northern Canada, having generated over 195 million kilowatt-hours of electricity to date.
Rio Tinto’s Global Decarbonization Goals
Rio Tinto is advancing its decarbonization strategy across its global operations. The company aims to:
- Halve Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
- Achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
The solar project received CAD 3.3 million ($2.42 million) in funding from the Northwest Territories government under the Large Emitters GHG Reducing Investment Grant Program.