In search of replacing its energy matrix with cleaner sources, Vale created the Power Shift program. The project contributes to Vale's strategy of reducing its direct and indirect emissions (scopes 1 and 2)1 by 33% by 2030, starting in 2017. Among the program's initiatives are the first 100% electric locomotive in Brazilian mining and one of the largest battery power storage systems for supplying electric demand in the country.

Find out below about the two technologies:

100% electric locomotive

The result of a partnership between Vale and Progress Rail, the 100% electric, battery-powered maneuvering yard locomotive significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions by replacing diesel with electricity from renewable sources. In addition, the equipment will also reduce noise emissions, minimizing impacts on communities living around Vale's operations.

Currently, railroad emissions represent about 10% of Vale's total scope 1 and 2 emissions. The locomotive, which will run in the yard of the Vitória a Minas Railway, at the Tubarão Unit, needs to pass complementary tests before it is ready to operate.

Find out more about the electric locomotive

BESS Batteries

Vale is installing at the Ilha Guaíba Terminal (TIG), in Rio de Janeiro, one of the largest battery energy storage systems to supply the country's electrical demand. The BESS system (Battery Energy Storage Systems), will reduce the cost of energy from the port by about 20% by replacing the supply of the utility grid during peak demand times, when the tariff is more expensive. The equipment has a storage capacity of 10 megawatts / hour, enough to serve 45,000 homes for an hour.

The use of batteries is one of the technologies that should be applied to replace diesel with renewable electric energy in transportation equipment, such as locomotives and off-road trucks, included in the Power Shift program, which is being implemented by the company.

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