Nouveau Monde, Caterpillar sign collaboration agreement for zero-emission mine solutions

Nouveau Monde’s Eric Desaulniers and Caterpillar’s Denise Johnson.

Nouveau Monde Graphite Inc. and Caterpillar Inc. have signed an agreement pursuant to which Caterpillar will develop, test and produce Cat “zero-emission machines” for the Matawinie graphite mine with a view to becoming the exclusive supplier of an all-electric mining fleet for deployment at Nouveau Monde’s Matawinie graphite mining project in Saint-Michel-des-Saints, Québec, Canada, by 2028.

“I recall our first meeting with Caterpillar some two years ago, outlining our vision of a zero-emission mine in Québec,” said Arne H. Frandsen, chairman of Nouveau Monde. “Our commitment to this vision has taken us to this very important moment, not only for Nouveau Monde, but for the global mining industry as a whole. Today, alongside Caterpillar, which in my opinion is the most trusted and reputable supplier of heavy-mining equipment worldwide, we can bring the zero-emission machines vision into reality.

“I think it is remarkable that Nouveau Monde, as a representative for the new style green resources industry, is part of spearheading the electrification of the industry, by collaborating with Caterpillar.”

The collaboration between the companies focuses on Nouveau Monde’s goal to fully power the site with zero-carbon footprint renewable energy. In order to accelerate and tailor the equipment development, Caterpillar will engage with Nouveau Monde’s team to incorporate voice of customer throughout the development, and for testing of the zero-emission fleet and infrastructure prior to commercial production.

Nouveau Monde’s all-electric fleet will be complemented by its access to clean and attractively priced hydro-electricity.

“We are proud to be a driving force for our peers as we strive to electrify our operations to meet our carbon neutrality commitments while maintaining the productivity and efficiency standards of our mining operations,” said Eric Desaulniers, founder, president and CEO of Nouveau Monde. “Even more gratifying and important to our corporate mission is that our project can serve as a springboard for the future of the mining industry by collaborating with Caterpillar on these cutting-edge technologies.”

Nouveau Monde is developing a fully integrated source of green battery anode material in Québec, targeting commercial operations by 2023. Its carbon-neutral graphite-based material solutions are intended for the lithium-ion and fuel cell markets.

“The collaboration between Caterpillar and Nouveau Monde marks an important milestone in the mining industry,” said Denise Johnson, Caterpillar Group president. “Through integrated technology, machines and services, the entire Caterpillar team is proud to support Nouveau Monde as they work towards constructing and establishing their first zero emission mine.”