In addition to being the largest diamond mine in the world, the structure breaks records by producing 4,2 million kilowatt-hours of solar energy per year, standing out for its sustainability.
The Diavik Diamond Mine, located in Canada’s Northwest Territories, is breaking records by generating 4,2 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of solar energy annually. Owned by mining giant Rio Tinto, the mine is not only known for its diamond production, but also for its commitment to sustainability.
The solar installation, which is the largest of its kind in Canada, reflects a growing trend of industries adopting more environmentally friendly practices.
Pioneering environmental initiative
Diavik’s solar power project not only reduces operating costs, but also helps reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, a crucial step in the fight against climate change.
- World's largest gold reserve discovered! Mineral deposit valued at over US$80 billion could impact the global market and mark a new chapter in mining
- Largest gold discovery in history: 8-ton reserve could change the global economy
- Lead pollution! Discoveries reveal it started over 5.000 years ago
- Iron ore prices plummet! Tariffs and trade tensions rock global markets
The 6.620-panel solar plant is a pioneering initiative by Rio Tinto in Canada, with a capacity of 3,5 megawatts. This investment aligns with the company’s vision to reduce its carbon emissions and has led the transition to cleaner energy sources.
This solar plant also allows Diavik to reduce its consumption of polluting diesel fuel by 1 million liters per year. This represents significant savings in both costs and environmental impact.
The move will be particularly important during the mine’s closure process, scheduled to take place at the end of 2026, when the operation will gradually cease. During this period, the solar plant will provide up to 25% of the electricity needed for operations, taking advantage of direct sunlight and even light reflected off snow.
Environmental and social impact
Diavik’s solar project is not only a milestone in the mining sector, but also crucial for local communities and the industry as a whole. The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions will be equivalent to taking 630 cars off the road each year.
Additionally, the project's financing is supported by the government of the Northwest Territories, which has invested CAD 3,3 million. (approximately US$2,4 million).
Matthew Breen, Diavik’s Chief Operating Officer, highlighted the importance of the solar plant not only for the sustainability but also for the energy efficiency of the mine’s operations. He said: “We are proud to be leading the way for large-scale renewable energy projects in Northern Canada.”
The Diavik Mine: The World's Largest Diamond Mine
The Diavik Diamond Mine is a joint venture between Rio Tinto and Dominion Diamond Diavik Limited Partnership. Located 186 miles northeast of Yellowknife, the mine began operations in January 2003, following the construction of the first kimberlite pipes. Over the years, the mine has established itself as one of the largest diamond producers in the world, contributing significantly to the local economy.
However, the mine's future is on a countdown. Its end of life is scheduled for 2026, and complete closure is expected by 2029.
While this marks the end of an era for the operation, the solar installation will continue to generate power for several years after closure, helping the mine meet its environmental obligations.
Rio Tinto's commitment to sustainability
Rio Tinto, a British-Australian multinational, has demonstrated a growing commitment to decarbonization and sustainability across its global operations. The distributed mining company has ambitious targets to reduce its Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. The Diavik mine is just one example of how the company is delivering on these promises with initiatives such as its solar project.
Furthermore, the solar project is a key part of Rio Tinto’s efforts to lead the mining industry towards a greener future. While the mine’s primary focus is on diamond mining, its increasing reliance on renewable energy sources shows that even the most traditional industries can evolve towards more sustainable models.
The Future of Solar Energy in the Mining Sector
With Diavik leading this transformation, it is possible that other mines and companies in the mining sector will follow suit by investing in renewable energy solutions.
Rio Tinto has stated that it is possible to balance the energy needs of an operation with a commitment to sustainability, creating a model which can be replicated in other parts of the world.
The Diavik Diamond Mine, with its new solar plant, is not only helping to shape the future of mining in Canada, but is also playing an important role in the fight against climate change. By continuing to invest in clean energy and reduce carbon emissions, Diavik is an example of how the industry can be part of the solution to the environmental challenges we face today.
The Diavik Diamond Mine, with its impressive solar plant, is not only breaking records, but also demonstrating that mining can evolve towards more sustainable and environmentally responsible practices. As Rio Tinto continues its journey towards decarbonization, the solar project is one of several initiatives the company is taking to ensure a greener future without compromising operational efficiency.