Global mining services provider Perenti Global has signed a memorandum of understanding with Sandvik to develop advanced diesel-electric equipment for underground mining, with the aim of driving sustainability.

This collaboration will leverage Perenti's underground mining expertise through its subsidiary, Barminco, to enhance the performance of Sandvik's underground diesel-electric loaders and trucks.

Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions president Mats Eriksson said: “Perenti, through its businesses including Barminco, is one of the world’s leading mining services providers, and can provide us with design suggestions and fantastic insights into real-world mining conditions.

“Together, we can create equipment optimised for Perenti’s working conditions while also developing the most advanced diesel-electric machines available anywhere in the world.”

The partnership will focus on customising Sandvik's diesel-electric machines to meet the specific needs of Perenti's operations.

Both companies will engage in a comprehensive process that includes design input, pre-factory testing and various operational trials.

The goal is to harness the potential of diesel-electric technology to improve underground mining operations in terms of both productivity and environmental impact.

Perenti will be responsible for machine design. It will also offer feedback at different testing stages such as pre-factory testing, operational testing and trial testing.

Last year, Sandvik announced its commitment to expanding its underground mining equipment range with diesel-electric options, complementing its existing battery-electric offerings.

Perenti managing director and CEO Mark Norwell said: “We are constantly looking for ways to improve the working environment and boost underground safety, efficiency and sustainability. Diesel-electric equipment has the potential to do this.

“Collaborating with our partners is a critical step in the process, and we believe that working with Sandvik enables us to benefit from cutting-edge technology and also play a role in shaping the equipment that the wider industry will be using tomorrow.”

In September 2023, Perenti subsidiary African Mining Services received a contract to offer mining services at Sandfire Resources’ A4 open pit within the larger Motheo copper mine in Ghanzi, Botswana.