Kim Valade and Eric Dessureault KV: General Manager ED: VP Operations MEGLAB
How did the integration with Epiroc unfold for Meglab?
KV: In recent months, we have united our strengths with Epiroc in the field of electrification. Meglab is now part of Epiroc Electrification Solutions (EES). Our primary objective is to support our customers in accelerating their transition to electric solutions.
ED: A prime example of our successful integration is the EMS (Energy Management Systems) project, designed to provide Epiroc customers with a seamless solution for managing power in mines. How do you help customers implement electrical solutions?
KV: We work with engineering firms to optimize all the processes from day one. For a complete electrical mine, this is where we combine digitalization and automation for a fully electric mine.
ED: We have Power Scan products for customers willing to know if their electrical infrastructure could support the switch to an electrical fleet. Why did Epiroc choose Québec as the home of its first electrification center in North America?
KV: The expertise developed here is recognized globally, in addition to Quebec's and Canada's leadership in the mining industry. In this macro-environment, are majors willing to put the capex into electrification?
KV: In the future, it will become increasingly challenging to undertake a project without automation and electrification. The main challenge lies in energy management and availability. Whether in Québec, where we have hydroelectricity, or elsewhere in the world where energy sources are more constrained, the key is to reduce consumption. What will be the priorities to capitalize on the relationship with Epiroc?
ED: One priority will be finding the right people and training them to be able to support the always-growing Epiroc electrical fleet.
Charlie Ekberg General Manager EPIROC CANADA
Can you share key highlights from Epiroc Canada's 2023 performance?
One of our major accomplishments was the successful deployment of the fully autonomous Pit Viper rigs. On the acquisitions front, notable additions include MineRP, as well as the Australian company RCT. And we are progressing towards a complete underground EV fleet by 2025. Can you present Epiroc Canada’s activities in Québec?
Epiroc in Québec employs over 350 people including Meglab Powered by Epiroc and Fordia Powered by Epiroc and, if we include our partner ACE Services Mécaniques, we add another 400 Service technicians. Our main mining projects, among a wide range of existing projects, have us working with Agnico Eagle, Eldorado, Wesdome, and Osisko. Are you seeing a push from Québec major producers towards electrification, automation and digitalization of equipment?
Definitely. Québec is particularly active with automation and electrification. For example, the first fully autonomous Epiroc Minetruck in the world is now running in one of the mines. Have you observed a slowdown in the adoption of BEVs in mining, considering the current financial climate?
The initial curiosity and concerns about charging, battery life, and operational aspects are diminishing and mines are strategically introducing battery equipment into their fleets. The shift shows no signs of slowing down. Can you elaborate on your efforts to build a fully electric vehicle fleet by 2030?
We have made significant strides in electrification. In addition to developing batteries with our suppliers, our R&D efforts encompass the entire machine, ensuring continuous advancement. Can you share Epiroc's plans for 2024 and the firm’s growth strategy in the mining segment in Québec?
Our key areas of emphasis will be on the battery electric and digital fronts. The integration of recently acquired companies will also play a pivotal role in expanding our portfolio.