First Mode’s Partnership with Ballard Paves the Way for Zero-Emission Mining

Ballard Power Systems, a leading provider of fuel cell solutions, and global carbon reduction company First Mode have announced a significant purchase order for Ballard to supply 60 hydrogen fuel cell modules to power hybrid hydrogen and battery ultra-class mining haul trucks.

The order, totaling 6 MW, signifies an expansion of their partnership and underscores the growing adoption of zero-emission alternatives in the mining industry.

Mining haul trucks, particularly in the ultra-class category, face the challenge of high energy demands and the need to maintain existing operating practices. The combination of hydrogen fuel cell and battery technology has emerged as a viable solution to replace diesel and achieve zero-emission operations while ensuring optimal performance. First Mode’s nuGen™ solution, integrated with Ballard’s fuel cell modules, addresses the duty cycle performance required by mining operators.

Julian Soles, CEO at First Mode, emphasizes the importance of this collaboration in helping customers meet their emission targets without compromising functionality. By incorporating Ballard’s fuel cell modules into their mining haul truck platform, First Mode aims to accelerate the decarbonization of the mining industry and showcase the value of fuel cell technology in heavy-duty applications.

David Mucciacciaro, Ballard’s Chief Commercial Officer, acknowledges that mining-haul trucks represent a challenging use case to decarbonize. However, the partnership with First Mode and the deployment of their fuel cell products in this segment demonstrate the industry’s increasing interest in sustainable solutions. Ballard looks forward to proving the value proposition of their fuel cell modules as more First Mode vehicles enter service.

As First Mode scales production for the next generation of their nuGen™ solution, the integration of Ballard’s fuel cells will play a pivotal role. With the upcoming demonstrations of the newly ordered engines at First Mode’s Proving Grounds in Centralia, Washington, starting in 2024, the potential impact of zero-emission vehicles in the mining sector becomes more tangible.

The collaboration between Ballard Power Systems and First Mode exemplifies the ongoing advancements in hydrogen fuel cell technology and its applicability in addressing carbon emissions in traditionally challenging industries. By prioritizing sustainability and leveraging innovative solutions, the mining sector can reduce its environmental footprint while meeting operational demands.