Spanish Mountain Gold Ltd. (SMG), a Canadian mining and exploration company, has partnered with international technology group Andritz and BC Hydro (the province’s utility company) to reduce the carbon intensity of its proposed gold mine near Williams Lake in British Columbia.
With the goal of building the most sustainable gold mine in Canada, SMG will use ANDRITZ’s simulation software for process optimization, energy management, and operator training.
Andritz's proprietary IDEAS simulation software will enable SMG to analyze energy consumption for greenfield operations, optimize process flowsheets, and predict power demand accurately. This proactive approach is crucial for balancing long-term supply and demand curves effectively. Similarly, it can be used to accurately support water management programs.
In addition, SMG envisions using the IDEAS simulation software to train local operators, supporting employment in the region. Trainees can learn the operation using a digital twin ahead of workforce recruitment and once employed at an operation can continuously improve how processes are controlled.
By harnessing simulation technology, SMG aims to achieve sustainable gold mining while creating opportunities for local communities through skills development and employment.
“We are very excited to be working with Spanish Mountain Gold on this project. The use of our technologies will help to reduce energy demand and drive positive changes in industry sustainability,” said Graham Ethier, Vice President Digital Products and Solutions for Mining and Mineral Processing at ANDRITZ in Canada.