The company took delivery of the pair in early July. They replace three electric locomotives that NTEC said were outdated.
Both new locomotives meet federal EPA Tier 4 emission standards. With a weight of approximately 426,000lb (193,230kg), they are capable of producing nearly 4,500hp (3,356kW) each.
The unveiling was made August 23 at the complex at a ceremony attended by Speaker LoRenzo Bates (Nenahnezad, Newcomb, San Juan, Tiis Tsoh Sikaad, Tse’Daa’Kaan, Upper Fruitland) and Council Delegate Tuchoney Slim, Jr. (Bodaway/Gap, Coppermine, K’ai’Bii’To, LeChee, Tonalea/Red Lake).
“Moving forward, there are challenges due to the competitive energy market and regulations,” Bates said at the event, calling the new equipment a sign of progress as well as a sign that the company is setting the operation up for the long-term future.
The new units are also a symbol of the new ownership of the mine, and a symbol of the new operators, NTEC chief executive Clark Moseley added. “The diesel locomotives will create a safer environment for Navajo mine. By removing the catenary system, we removed the overhead power line and allows for better maintenance of the railroad track.
“Safety is a primary concern for us.”
The Navajo mine is the first coal mine to be owned by a North American tribe.
