Course

Effective Strategies for BEV Adoption in Mining Operations
Level: Introductory
Facilitators: 
Edward Fagan, Zero Nexus 
David Lyon, Zero Nexus
Nam (John) Le, Natural Resources Canada-CanmetMINING

Abstract:
Implementing new battery electric vehicle (BEV) technology in an organization can pose multiple operational challenges. The risks associated with high voltage battery systems can generate negative perceptions amongst various stakeholders, from the mine managers to the machine operators. While this often stems from a knowledge gap, several factors are advancing the state-of-the-art for BEVs, including new case studies of battery electric machines, improved development/safety processes and updated standards and guidelines. This course provides an up-to-date understanding of the challenges and solutions for deploying BEVs in Canadian mines supported by case studies and industry expertise. 

The course will provide an overview of BEVs and their support systems and review the current state of the technology. The course will provide insights gathered through the EVMO project and field-testing results from NRCan-CanmetMINING, offering practical knowledge to support the successful expansion of electric vehicle fleets in mining operations.

Over the course of the day, the instructors will provide their insights on key topics, including the business case for BEVs, BEV total cost of ownership, mine design and operational changes and battery safety. 

Through interactive workshop sessions, attendees will identify the adoption challenges within their own organizations and supply chains. Attendees will work through practical examples on implementing charging strategies like fast charging, depot charging and battery swapping. They will also learn how total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis for a BEV fleet informs investment decision making. The course will provide a guide to the change management process and how to address the complexity of adopting BEV technology based on real-life case studies.

The course will close with an interactive session that will allow group discussion on the future work required in the transition from diesel to electric vehicles.

Short Course Objectives: 
Empower attendees to contribute to the successful expansion of electric vehicle fleets through informed decision-making and stakeholder engagement. 

Target Audience: 

• Underground mine operators

• Surface mine operators

• Human resources professionals

• Stakeholders in environment, sustainability and community relations

About the instructors: 
Edward Fagan, Ph. D. is an Associate Partner at Zero Nexus Inc. Edward supports clients to develop sustainable technologies through project management, technical training and business strategy development. Edward has supported the development of renewable energy devices in both academia and industry as a research fellow and adjunct lecturer. His core focus is on the challenges of energy management in mining equipment and the adoption of new technologies in the shift to electrification.
David Francis Lyon is the President and Founder of Zero Nexus Inc., where he spearheads the electrification of the mining industry and champions sustainable practices. His leadership focuses on driving the adoption of critical technologies that advance global sustainability goals. By fostering collaboration with mineral producers, startups, and SMEs, Lyon has positioned Zero Nexus as a key player in promoting digital and electric technologies, catalyzing industry-wide transformation towards more sustainable mining practices.
Nam (John) Le, P.Eng is the Senior Engineer with NRCan-CanmetMINING, a branch of Minerals and Metals Sectors of Natural Resources Canada. John is a Professional Engineer who has over 15 years' experience in engineering management and designing mobile equipment for underground mines. John successfully completed the entire cycle of designing, manufacturing, testing, and maintaining diesel and battery electric machines. Currently, he is focusing on battery, hydrogen, and diesel-electric technologies to improve and reduce carbon footprints in the mining industry.