The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) is supporting a first-of-its-kind dynamic charging technology to reduce emissions in the Australian mining sector with a $9 million grant to BluVein.
The funding will allow BluVein to trial its "hammer and rail" dynamic charging technology designed for heavy haulage battery electric mining vehicles, which will facilitate safe electric powering and charging in motion.
ARENA CEO Darren Miller said BluVein aims to prove what innovative technology can offer Australia's most energy intensive industries.
"Australia's heavy industries are a major source of emissions and energy use. If we're serious about hitting our climate targets, we need bold solutions," Mr Miller said.
"BluVein's innovative hammer and rail technology could offer a solution for Australia's reliance on billions of litres of diesel fuel by using renewable energy delivered through the grid to power mining haul trucks."
BluVein will first develop and trial a 40-60 tonne prototype truck integrated with BluVein's charging technology (BluVein1, approximately 1MW), for underground mining use, before extending the development of its technology to use for ultra-class heavy surface haulage trucking, with the BluVeinXL hammer and rail (approximately 8MW).
This scalable system reduces mining emissions, enhances worker safety through its protected rail design and adapts to any mine layout, optimising efficiency and productivity across diverse mining environments.
Cleaning up mining and processing are critical steps in decarbonising the renewable energy supply chain. By reducing the reliance on diesel and electrifying machinery and site operations, mining can significantly contribute to producing low-emission metals and diversifying supply chains globally.
BluVein CEO James Oliver said BluVein is thrilled to receive ARENA's $9 million grant to trial its innovative hammer and rail dynamic charging technology for heavy mining vehicles.
"This project, supported by ARENA, will demonstrate how BluVein1 and BluVeinXL can decarbonise Australia's mining sector by enabling safe, in-motion electrification. By reducing diesel reliance, we aim to lower emissions and enhance operational efficiency, paving the way for sustainable mining practices."
"This project will drive critical advancements in low-emission metals production, benefiting Australia's economy and environment."
Round 2 of ARENA's Industrial Transformation Stream Program is now closed to new applications, with Round 3 expected to open in Q4 2025.
In the interim, proponents can still make enquires about potential projects by visiting the funding page.
