Newmont Corporation’s Africa Business unit has deployed the Cat® diesel-electric R2900 XE hybrid loader at Subika Underground mine in Ahafo South.

The mining equipment, the first of its kind to be used in Africa, marks a significant milestone in Newmont’s commitment to reduce its global environmental footprint, according to the company’s ambitious goal of zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Newmont has committed to purchasing nine pieces of the R2900 XE loaders for Subika Underground, between now and 2026, as it phases out the current fleet of loaders at the mine site.

“The new hybrid loader combines the power of diesel with the efficiency of electric technology to deliver a 31% improvement in fuel efficiency, translating into significant reductions in heat generation underground, fewer emissions, and a healthier working environment,” said Dave Thornton, the managing director for Newmont’s business unit in Africa.

In 2021, Newmont entered into a $100 million strategic alliance with Caterpillar Inc., to build a comprehensive mining system which encompasses autonomous haulage fleets and other technologies for both open pit and underground operations.

The deployment of the CAT R2900 XE loader in Ghana is part of this programme, representing a paradigm shift in the mining industry towards accelerating carbon emission reduction.