The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has awarded a $9 million grant to BluVein to trial a first-of-its-kind dynamic charging technology aimed at reducing emissions in Australia’s mining sector.
The funding will support the development and testing of BluVein’s “hammer and rail” system, which allows heavy haulage battery electric mining vehicles to be charged safely while in motion, ARENA said in a news release.
The trial will initially focus on a 40-60 tonne prototype truck for underground mining, before expanding to ultra-class heavy surface haulage trucks through the higher-capacity BluVeinXL system.
ARENA chief executive Darren Miller said the project aims to demonstrate how innovative solutions can help transform one of Australia’s most energy-intensive industries.
“Australia’s heavy industries are a major source of emissions and energy use. If we’re serious about hitting our climate targets, we need bold solutions,” Miller said.
“BluVein’s innovative hammer and rail technology could offer a solution for Australia’s reliance on billions of litres of diesel fuel by using renewable energy delivered through the grid to power mining haul trucks.”
The scalable charging system is designed to cut mining emissions, improve worker safety through a protected rail design, and adapt to varying mine layouts to optimise operational efficiency.
According to ARENA, the project aligns with the need to decarbonise mining and processing, which are essential steps in supporting a cleaner renewable energy supply chain and enabling the production of low-emission metals.
BluVein chief executive James Oliver said the company was “thrilled” to receive the funding and outlined the potential benefits of the technology.
“This project, supported by ARENA, will demonstrate how BluVein1 and BluVeinXL can decarbonise Australia’s mining sector by enabling safe, in-motion electrification. By reducing diesel reliance, we aim to lower emissions and enhance operational efficiency, paving the way for sustainable mining practices,” Mr Oliver said.
“This project will drive critical advancements in low-emission metals production, benefiting Australia’s economy and environment.”
The grant comes under ARENA’s Industrial Transformation Stream Program, which recently closed its second round of applications. Round three is expected to open in the fourth quarter of 2025, with enquiries about potential projects still being accepted via ARENA’s funding page.
