![\"\"](\"https:\/\/northamericanmining.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/RT-Diavik-aerial-2.jpeg\")
<\/p>\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n
Rio Tinto\u2019s Diavik diamond mine has been awarded the Towards Sustainable Mining (TSM) Environmental Excellence Award for its solar power plant \u2013 the largest off-grid solar installation in Canada\u2019s territories.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThis recognition reflects our commitment to environmental responsibility and collaboration with our partners,\u201d Chief Operating Officer of Diavik Diamond Mine Matthew Breen said. \u201cThis project demonstrates the potential for large-scale renewable energy in Canada\u2019s North, and we are proud to contribute to the industry\u2019s progress toward a lower-carbon future.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Activated last July, the 3.5-megawatt facility features 6,620 bi-facial (double-sided) panels and is designed to meet up to 25% of the site\u2019s power needs during closure, which is set to begin in 2026. The plant is expected to generate approximately 4.2 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
As Diavik progresses toward closure, Rio Tinto said the mine is working with community partners and governments to explore opportunities to redeploy the solar plant elsewhere in the North, extending its environmental and community benefits beyond the life of the mine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The mine, located about 200 kilometers south of the Arctic Circle in the Northwest Territories, also features a wind-diesel hybrid power facility that has a capacity of 55.4 MW.<\/p>\n\n\n\n