Article originally published in PotashWorks Magazine, January 2024
As Saskatchewan mining operations strive to adopt eco-friendly practices and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the adoption of clean process heat and electricity stands at the forefront of the many conversations we are leading with our clients and industry. We are seeing a growing interest in the application of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as one of the most intriguing opportunities to decarbonize industrial operations.
While the application of SMRs for potash mining operations is compelling, mine operators and companies serving the potash industry need to consider and understand how the heat or combined heat, and the power produced by SMRs would be used and what processes might need to be adapted. With the different SMR technologies available, along with operations readiness, applicability to mining energy requirements, and the path to deployment, there are many considerations for mine operators as they determine the integration of this technology in their operations.
Working with our clients and industry partners, March applies systems thinking to energy transition challenges. Systems thinking involves taking a more holistic view of complex issues and acknowledging areas of interconnectedness. We examine major key issues, such as waste production and waste management, energy production, and supply chain management in the early stages of energy projects. In addition, evaluating energy reliability is an important consideration. For industrial operations that run continuously, the intermittency of renewable options needs to be mitigated by using energy storage such as battery banks, which further adds to the environmental footprint of the solution. The analysis can become complex, and applying a systems thinking approach helps our clients consider all aspects to aid in better decisions for their operations.
Celebrating our 25th year as Saskatchewan’s largest multi-discipline engineering consulting firm, we take great pride in our collaborative partnerships with local mine operators. Our extensive experience in potash mining processes, coupled with our knowledge of the nuclear energy sector, positions us to assist clients and partners in exploring innovative applications for these technologies. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to decarbonizing energy systems. Different geographic regions and distinct potash mining and milling operations have different considerations and options.
Nuclear energy is a leading solution, and SMRs will play an important role in the energy mix to achieve net-zero for Saskatchewan potash producers. We look forward to leveraging industry collaboration to assist our clients with deploying innovative solutions for a net-zero future in Saskatchewan’s potash mining industry. Contact us to learn more.
Original article is available here (page 64): https://potashworks.com/annual-magazine/