Mining equipment specialist Epiroc has signed a delivery agreement with Swedish steelmaker SSAB under which Epiroc’s battery-electric range of underground mine trucks and loaders will be made using SSAB Zero™ – a fossil carbon emission-free recycled steel produced using fossil-free energy sources.

Epiroc said it was the first company in the mining industry to sign such an agreement, with the ‘green’ steel set to be used in the manufacture of its products that will be introduced as early as Q3 2023.

SSAB Zero™ will be used in the production of Epiroc’s Smart and Green series of battery-electric mine trucks and loaders, enabling zero-emission underground operations, said Epiroc, adding that the partnership with SSAB is part of its long-term commitment to produce the world’s greenest machines, as well as SSAB´s aim to help create fossil-free value chains.

Thomas Hörnfeldt, head of Sustainable Business at SSAB, said: “SSAB Zero™ broadens our zero-emission portfolio and strengthens the business offering, allowing us to bring zero-emission steel to our customers already this year. There is a large demand for this kind of steel, and it is satisfying to have such an offer in place.”

Sami Niiranen, president of Epiroc’s Underground division, added: “We are very excited to utilise SSAB’s pioneering low-carbon solutions. This is one of many ways that we are accelerating the transformation of the mining industry - while also helping our customers to reach their sustainability goals.”

A statement from SSAB said SSAB Zero™ has zero fossil carbon emission (less than 0.05kg CO2e emissions per kg steel in scope 1 and 2) in operations, including purchased energy and transportation.

“SSAB practices market-based emission factors for the electricity used and may secure fossil-free electricity through electricity guarantees of origin. Fossil fuels remain in the ground as SSAB has implemented a system to manage and ensure the correct source and use of alternatives connected to the production of SSAB Zero™. Only recycled steel is used as raw material, which means SSAB Zero™ supports the circular economy. SSAB does not engage in carbon emission offsetting activities,” the steelmaker’s statement added.