ENGIE said the partnership would accelerate the development of decarbonisation solutions for mining operations, to "reconcile economic performance with a positive impact on people and the planet".

Brisbane-based Mining3, founded in 1991, works with industry members on improving the productivity, sustainability, and safety of the mining industry. 

Its members include mining companies, OEMs and research organisations including CSIRO, Newcrest, Komatsu, Dyno Nobel, The University of Queensland, OZ Minerals, South32, Queensland University of Technology, AngloGold Ashanti, Caterpillar and Vale.

"ENGIE is delighted to join Mining3 and its members to co-develop renewable hydrogen-based solutions for the mining industry," said Michele Azalbert, CEO of ENGIE's Hydrogen Business Unit.  "These solutions will help the industry players reach their carbon-neutrality goals, as well as help reduce emissions for countries where mining is a key industry."

Mining3 chief executive, Paul Lever said Mining3 has already identified a number of projects that align with both ENGIE's strategy as well as the mining industry's current and future needs.

"We believe that these only scrape the surface of what can be done in this space, and are looking forward to developing a diverse and forward-thinking energy roadmap for our members," stated Lever.

"Our priorities at Mining3 are on developing next-generation mining systems and technologies, and we see sustainability drivers and particularly renewables as key components for this strategy in the coming years. We plan to be on the forefront of this research, and I believe we can achieve this with ENGIE as a partner on renewable hydrogen."