Can you share the main highlights from BBA's Mining and Metal division in 2023? 

Opening our first US office, in Salt Lake City was a big step. And we now have 18 offices in Canada, including new ones in Saguenay and Sept-Îles, in Québec. Our Canadian expansion has paid off, especially in British Columbia, where we now have 200 people. One of our biggest clients in 2023 was Vale in Central Canada, marking the first time a top client based outside Eastern Canada.

Can you share an example of a recent Québec project?

We are particularly proud of the biofuel project for the ArcelorMittal Pellet plant. It aimed at partially switching from the fossil fuel to a carbon-neutral biofuel. We performed the feasibility study. It’s the first anywhere to use pyrolytic oil continuously in its processes. It also constitutes the largest consumption of fuel made from forest biomass. The conversion will allow ArcelorMittal to cut its annual use of heavy fuel oil by 23%. This project won numerous environment awards, showcasing our commitment to sustainability and innovation in the mining sector.

How do mining clients leverage innovations like digital power systems and VR labs?

Decarbonization and digitalization intersect. For example, we optimize Rio Tinto’s logistics by leveraging operational data. The mining value chain is complex, so we use data to get a holistic view and make simulations to optimize and reduce costs throughout the entire process.

We also have a digital power system lab that we use to test systems before commissioning, allowing us to complete field work faster, and reduce re-work and costs. It also allows mining companies to operate and monitor electrical networks remotely, reduce production stoppages and ensure a more resilient operation. Our digital power systems can also create a digital twin of an electrical network to optimize energy consumption. This ensures that all components, including renewables, work together seamlessly. It aids clients in real-time decision-making, reduces production risks, and optimizes the entire network.

How is Québec’s push to become a battery leader impacting the work of engineers like BBA?

At BBA, historically, we have had a strong presence in gold and iron markets. However, we are now witnessing a remarkable increase in lithium projects. Québec's government is actively promoting the province as a leader in the battery industry, resulting in substantial funding and a surge in project commissioning. These projects are no longer just exploratory but transitioning to commissioning phases. Our remaining iron projects are more centered on sustaining production and decarbonizing operations. Across all commodities, there is a notable push towards decarbonization. Carbon footprint reduction has become the primary driver for our clients seeking our assistance.

How does BBA approach decarbonization in the mining industry, especially considering the challenges of historical operations?

Decarbonization presents challenges. While greenfield projects offer more room for innovation, BBA focuses primarily on brownfield projects. Decarbonizing existing operations requires a solid decarbonization planning exercise. We provide integrated tailored solutions. A notable project with Glencore in Raglan involved implementing a wind turbine, and we continue to support them in their decarbonization journey. Similarly, carbon capture initiatives are evaluated jointly with clients. Our involvement in numerous Canadian CCUS projects allows us to assess and develop the appropriate CCUS mining potential applications. Our  Eco-mindfulness and sustainability constitute one of our five core values, permeating every stage of our projects. Our primary focus is helping clients reach their sustainability targets while ensuring projects uphold financial objectives. 

What makes Québec’s mining industry unique compared with the other jurisdictions in which BBA operates?
 
Quebec’s industry is dynamic. We have a wide range of commodities: gold, copper, zinc, and nickel; we have lithium, and we have huge iron ore deposits, from which we can produce the high-grade iron ore concentrate the world needs for the transition into green steelmaking. Steelmaking is one of the most carbon-intensive industries on the planet. Companies like Minerai de Fer Quebec and Arcelor Mittal are actively positioning themselves as leaders of the transition.  
 
We are also blessed with a lot of natural resources, including green hydropower. This makes Quebec the best place to have a direct impact when we implement mine electrification projects. I hope we will see more of it over the next few years.