Savannah Resources PLC (AIM:SAV, ETR:SAV, OTC:SAVNF) has provided an update on its decarbonization study for the Barroso Lithium Project in Portugal which has confirmed that using battery electric mining equipment would be the most effective way to reduce the project's Scope 1 emissions to zero.
The strategy was created following the completion of the initial study phase by ECOPROGRESSO, a Portuguese environmental, sustainability, and climate change consultant. The study aimed to update the project's greenhouse gas inventory, reduce emissions, and create a preliminary decarbonization strategy.
The European lithium development company said the estimate of the project's Scope 2 baseline emissions was reduced by 54% from the original 2019 forecast. This reduction was due to a potential reduction in the power requirement of the plant and a 41% reduction in the emissions associated with Portugal's grid power. In 2021, 62.2% of Portugal's grid power was generated from renewable sources.
In a statement, Dale Ferguson, CEO of Savannah, said: "I am extremely encouraged with the results from the initial decarbonization study work and the clear path it helps to define for further carbon reduction throughout the Project's life."
He added: "As part of our Definitive Feasibility Study, we will complete further detailed analysis to continue to drive our goal of achieving a net zero carbon emission Project."
The study determined suitable emission reduction initiatives in the areas of operation engineering, energy, and environment. A number of scoring methodologies were used to determine a shortlist of initiatives based on their technical feasibility, potential environmental impact, and potential economic impact. These initiatives were modeled to assess the cost of ownership per tonne CO2 equivalent abated.
The preliminary findings of the study have confirmed the potential for significant reductions in the project's carbon footprint and have provided a clear path forward for further carbon reduction.
Savannah and its technical partners, including ABB, are focused on reducing the project's impacts and emissions. The company is exploring options to secure 100% renewable energy supply to the project and is working with mining equipment OEMs to determine a solution for a transition to battery-operated mining equipment.
Further detailed analysis will be conducted as part of the project's Definitive Feasibility Study, Savannah said.