Fast chargers aim to begin electrifying heavy mining operations by 2025.

As mining shifts toward decarbonization, Fortescue is taking steps to electrify its operations with a 6-megawatt (MW) fast charger test unit, backed by funding from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) – a project that aims to revolutionize charging technology for heavy mining equipment, with the eventual deployment of 250 fast chargers across its iron ore operations by the end of the decade.

Founded in 2003, Fortescue Metals Group, commonly known as Fortescue, has grown into one of the largest iron ore producers globally. Headquartered in Perth, Western Australia, the company operates major mining projects across the Pilbara region – an area well-known for its substantial iron ore deposits.

Alongside employing over 14,000 people, Fortescue integrates sustainable practices into large-scale iron ore production, with an annual output of approximately 180 million metric tons to meet global demand.

In recent years, like many companies, Fortescue has shifted its focus toward sustainability and green technology. Through its Fortescue Future Industries, the company is pursuing ambitious initiatives in renewable energy and green hydrogen, all aimed at achieving "Real Zero" emissions by 2030.

Central to Fortescue's decarbonization efforts is Fortescue Zero, a subsidiary company formed to develop advanced charging and battery solutions to transition its mining fleet to electric power.

Building on its decarbonization ambitions, Fortescue has recently secured A$10 million (US$ 6.5 million) in funding from ARENA to develop a 6 MW fast charger test unit designed to revolutionize charging technology for heavy mining equipment and is a critical step toward electrifying the company's fleet.

Fortescue

Fortescue Zero's research and development facility uses advanced robotics for testing and developing next-generation charging solutions to support the electrification of mining equipment.

Fortescue Zero will design, build, and validate multiple fast charger test units, with the first production-ready 6-MW charger set for deployment by the end of 2025, ultimately aiming to install around 250 fast chargers across Fortescue's iron ore operations by the end of the decade to drastically reduce emissions and reliance on fossil fuels.

"These innovative chargers are designed to be safe, rugged, and scalable for various vehicle applications," said Fortescue Zero CEO Ellie Coates. "Leveraging our expertise in battery and charging solutions from motorsport, these chargers have been specifically developed for the challenging conditions of the Pilbara. Equipped with robotic connection options, they will be able to power our future 240-tonne Liebherr T 264 battery electric trucks in just 30 minutes."

Australia Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy Josh Wilson also spoke about the significance of Fortescue's work.

"Heavy haulage trucks are integral to mining operations but currently rely on fossil fuels, which means unwanted pollution and energy insecurity," he said. "Fortescue's fast charger development is a forward-looking project that will help electrify mining operations and contribute to the critical task of decarbonizing our economy."

Both charger test units and early production models will be assembled and undergo rigorous testing at Fortescue Zero's Research and Development facility in Perth prior to their deployment to the Pilbara region. This step is vital to ensuring that the chargers can withstand the demanding conditions they will face in heavy mining applications.