In a groundbreaking study published in the International Journal of Renewable Energy Development, researchers have proposed a transformative approach to repurposing mining-degraded areas in Brazil’s Quadrilátero Ferrífero (QF) region. Lead author Alberto de Almeida Bossi Guimarães, from the Graduate Program in Mechanical Engineering at the Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, outlines a dual strategy that could turn abandoned mine pits into reservoirs for Pumped Storage Hydropower (PSH) while simultaneously converting surrounding areas into Photovoltaic Power Plants (PV).
The study highlights the potential of these innovative solutions to address two pressing issues: the environmental liabilities posed by inactive mines and the need for sustainable energy sources. By utilizing deactivated mine pits for PSH, the researchers suggest that these sites can serve as hydraulic batteries, effectively storing energy generated from the intermittent nature of solar power. This dual energy approach not only mitigates the effects of energy generation variability but also offers a sustainable pathway for revitalizing degraded landscapes.
The research identified a specific pair of mine pits in the QF that could generate approximately 234.3 MW for the electrical grid. The estimated cost of the generated energy ranges from $112.26 to $167.22 per megawatt-hour, presenting a viable economic opportunity for energy providers and investors. Guimarães notes, “Utilizing inactive mines as PSH reservoirs and installing PV in adjacent mining-degraded areas are innovative and technologically feasible strategies.”
This initiative could significantly impact the renewable energy sector, particularly in regions facing challenges related to energy intermittency and environmental restoration. Mining companies and energy developers may find new opportunities for collaboration, leveraging existing infrastructure while contributing to sustainability goals. As the demand for clean energy continues to rise, the integration of PSH and PV systems could position Brazil as a leader in innovative renewable energy solutions.
The findings from this case study not only provide a blueprint for other mining regions but also underscore the importance of rethinking land use in the context of energy production and environmental stewardship. As the market for renewable energy evolves, strategies like those proposed by Guimarães could play a crucial role in shaping a sustainable energy future.
