CATL, Rio Tinto to advance mine electrification

Chinese battery technology company CATL has inked a new memorandum of understanding with mining major Rio Tinto to work on “advancing the application of electrification in mining operations” and exploring battery material recycling pathways.

Fellow mining giant BHP last year signed an MoU with China’s CATL and BYD to co-develop battery systems and fast‑charging infrastructure for mines.

“The companies have engaged in deep cooperation to jointly seek new industrial opportunities brought about by the low carbon transition,” CATL said of the Rio Tinto MoU, signed by CATL international investment management department director Luo Haining and Rio Tinto group global purchasing president Jamie Sanders.

Rio Tinto group chief commercial officer Bold Baatar and CATL CFO Zheng Shu also attended the signing.

CATL said the two companies would assess “circular development of key mineral resources and ... circular economy practices and diverse cooperation models”.

“CATL will leverage its strengths in battery technology, systems integration and new energy solutions to help Rio Tinto improve operational efficiency, promote carbon reduction and electrification,” the company said.