• ABB to deliver, install, and commission a 120kV substation for a groundbreaking electrification initiative
• The integration of hydroelectric power guarantees a clean energy supply for what may become the world’s first fully electric open-pit mine.

Nouveau Monde Graphite has entrusted ABB with the contract to supply, construct, and commission a 120kV substation for Phase-2 of its Matawinie Mine in Quebec, Canada. This is part of the construction phase in preparation for a graphite mining and processing complex that aims to produce 103,000 tons per year.

The Matawinie Mine, located 120 km north of Montreal, will be connected to Quebec’s hydropower grid, granting access to clean energy to facilitate mining activities and the production of carbon-neutral graphite concentrate for the lithium-ion battery market. Nouveau Monde Graphite plans to operate the mine using an entirely electric fleet and corresponding charging infrastructure, potentially making it the world’s first all-electric open-pit mine upon commencement of operations.

The Phase-1 concentration plant at the Matawanie Mine. Image Nouveau Monde Graphite

“We are thrilled to be moving closer to creating the mine of the future, powered by clean energy to sustainably extract and produce a key mineral for global decarbonization,” said Eric Desaulniers, Founder, President, and CEO of Nouveau Monde Graphite. “From the beginning of our electrification efforts, ABB’s team has matched our innovative vision, helping us turn it into reality.”

ABB, a globally recognized leader in mine electrification with its ABB eMine™ portfolio, will oversee the construction of the substation. This will serve as the primary link between the mine and Hydro-Québec’s hydropower plant, enabling the complete electrification of the Matawinie Mine using renewable energy. ABB’s dedicated project management team will manage the engineering, supply, commissioning, and launch of the substation, bringing its technical expertise to support Nouveau Monde Graphite’s operations.

“This marks a proud milestone for ABB’s electrification and automation experts as we contribute to this pioneering operation at Matawinie,” noted Sachin Jari, Head of Mining for North America at ABB Process Industries. “From the start, we have worked closely with Nouveau Monde Graphite to realize their vision, and now we can push this groundbreaking project forward together.”

Innovative co-disposal tailings management work at the Matawinie Mine. Image Nouveau Monde Graphite

ABB is a technology leader in electrification and automation, driving a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. The company’s solutions connect engineering expertise and software to optimize the manufacturing, transportation, energy, and operation sectors. With over 130 years of innovation, ABB’s team of more than 105,000 employees remains committed to driving industrial transformation through cutting-edge solutions.

ABB’s Process Automation division is a market leader in automation, electrification, and digitalization within process and hybrid industries. The division offers customers a wide range of products, systems, and comprehensive solutions, including the world’s leading distributed control system, software, and lifecycle services, as well as industry-specific products, measurement and analytics tools, and marine offerings. As the global number two in the market, ABB leverages its deep expertise, diverse talent, and global reach to help clients improve competitiveness, maximize return on investment, and ensure safe, intelligent, and sustainable operations.

Nouveau Monde Graphite is an integrated company developing responsible mining and advanced manufacturing practices to supply carbon-neutral active anode material for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage. The company is working towards a fully integrated graphite ore-to-battery-material production chain in Québec, Canada. With strong ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) credentials and strategic partnerships with key customers, NMG is positioned to become a vital supplier to leading lithium-ion battery and electric vehicle manufacturers worldwide, offering high-performance, sustainable, and traceable materials.

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