Delta Electronics is making waves at the All Energy Expo in Melbourne with a lineup of innovations aimed squarely at the mining sector and the broader goal of achieving net-zero emissions. Australia Country Manager Tom Hew is confident that the company is showcasing some of the best technology in the industry this year. This isn’t just another tech reveal; it’s a strategic push to provide mining companies with the tools they need to navigate their unique paths to sustainability.
At the heart of Delta’s presentation is a new lithium ferrous phosphate (LFP) battery container, designed for grid-scale and medium to large-scale industrial energy storage applications. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill battery; it boasts high energy density and scalability from 708 kilowatts per hour to a whopping 7.78 megawatts per hour. This flexibility means that companies can tailor their energy storage solutions to fit their specific spatial and capacity needs, optimizing land use without sacrificing performance.
But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Delta is also unveiling an all-in-one energy storage system with a capacity ranging from 125 kilowatts per hour to 279 kilowatts per hour. This system integrates a power conditioning unit, an advanced battery system complete with a built-in battery management system, and a cooling system designed to maintain optimal temperature uniformity. The use of liquid-cooled battery modules not only enhances performance but also extends the lifespan of the battery—an essential factor in the mining sector, where downtime can be costly.
Perhaps the most exciting development is Delta’s prototype of the Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) hydrogen technology, which combines a solid oxide electrolysis cell (SOEC) for hydrogen production with a SOFC for power generation. This integrated energy solution offers agile power control and fuel flexibility, making it suitable for a variety of applications, from powering vehicles to industrial operations and microgrids. While it’s still in its infancy, with a planned release in 2025, it represents a significant step toward providing mining companies with a mix of technologies to meet their net-zero targets.
Hew emphasizes that every mining operation has a unique approach to sustainability. Some companies are leaning heavily into electrification, while others are exploring hydrogen solutions or a hybrid of both. By offering a diverse range of options, Delta is positioning itself as a leader in the energy transition, catering to the varied needs of its customers.
Delta’s ambitions don’t stop at the expo. The company plans to launch its SOEC and SOFC technology in 2026 and is eyeing expanded utility and commercial applications in the years that follow. This commitment to innovation is complemented by Delta’s recent acquisition of the power inductor and powder materials business from Japan’s Alps Alpine for $71 million. This strategic move not only enhances Delta’s technological capabilities but also reinforces its commitment to long-term sustainability.
As the All Energy Expo brings together renewable energy professionals from across Australia, Delta is not just participating; it’s shaping the future landscape of energy solutions in the mining sector and beyond. With a focus on hydrogen energy and integrated systems, Delta is not merely keeping pace with industry trends; it’s setting them. As we look to the future, the question remains: how will these innovations redefine the energy landscape for mining and other industries striving for sustainability?
