Stockholm Forum Program - Global Mining Guidelines Group

April 8 (AM) - Decarbonization and Electrification: The Path Forward

Electrification is not About CO2

Electrification in the mining industry goes beyond merely reducing CO₂ emissions. While the environmental benefits are significant, the true driving factor should be the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). By focusing on TCO, mining companies can achieve substantial operational savings and efficiency improvements. This presentation will address critical factors in achieving cost-effective electrification, including decreased battery costs, development of charging infrastructure, and potential modifications to business models.

Renewable Electricity – the Unstoppable Force

Even as renewable fuels expand, renewable electricity has surged ahead as the fastest-growing and cheapest power source in most regions. It offers a stable path forward amid shifting political winds. The mining industry, a highly energy-intensive sector, stands at a pivotal moment to harness this momentum. By embracing renewable power, mines can secure reliable, low-cost energy while cutting emissions and boosting resilience. This presentation explores International Energy Agency (IEA) scenarios to illustrate where the global energy landscape is headed. It highlights mining’s unique opportunity to evolve from a passive energy consumer into an active participant in this new system. Mines can leverage expansive access to land and grid infrastructure for on-site solar and wind generation and repurpose mine infrastructure for energy storage, becoming clean energy hubs.

Call to action:

I urge the Global Mining Guidelines Group (GMG) and its members to lead the charge by establishing a dedicated Renewable Energy in Mining workgroup. This collaborative group will develop practical guidance for integrating renewables into mining operations, identify and address challenges, and share best practices across the industry. It will also explore innovative opportunities such as on-site renewable generation and integrating large scale energy storage solutions into mine plans. By acting now, the mining industry can seize control of its energy future and become a pivotal player in the clean energy revolution.

An Update from the Deployment of Electric Trolley Trucks at Rävliden Mine

The trolley truck system in Rävliden is developed in cooperation between Boliden, Epiroc and ABB. After trials on a shorter track 2023-2024, the system covering the full ramp and several trucks is now in start-up. The two key persons from Boliden and Epiroc presents the solution, learnings so far and future of the trolley system.

Panel: Is it only About Batteries?

As the world transitions to clean energy and sustainable technologies, batteries are often at he center of the conversation. But is the future of electrification and decarbonization solely about batteries? This panel will explore the broader landscape of technologies driving the energy transition and their impact on the mining industry.

Anders Lindkvist, Product Manager, Epiroc
Andreas Simoncic, Business Development Manager – Mining Nordics, Sandvik (Moderator)
Peter Wallin, Manager Electrification Program, Boliden
Stefan Thornburn, PhD, Senior Scientist, ABB Corporate Research

Renewables and Mining – Opportunities and Grid Aspects

Renewables and batteries become cheaper and cheaper. This will create an opportunity for mining companies to reduce energy costs and reduce CO2 emissions but will be dependent on each specific mine location. Both power and energy availability will be influenced as well as mining grid aspects. This presentation will give an overview of aspects to consider both on the integration of renewables and consequences for the mining grid and grid operation.

GMG: Innovation through Industry Collaboration

Working Session: Decarbonization: Working Together on Practical Solutions

Now only five years away from 2030, what is it going to take to achieve those emissions targets and beyond? During this working session participants will work together to identify practical solutions to achieve success.

April 8 (PM) - New Technologies and Approaches for Maximum Impact

Panel: Challenges and Experiences with Operational Underground LTE/4G/5G Projects at Zinkgruvan and Sandvik Test Mine

Andreas Simoncic, Business Development Manager – Mining Nordics, Sandvik (Moderator)
Håkan Mann, IT Project Manager, Zinkgruvan Mining
Marko Jokinen, Digital Ecosystem Manager, Sandvik
Robert Olsson, Senior RAN Design Engineer, Telia Company

Working Session: Achieving Value through New Technology: Are you Ready?

Industry is striving to increase productivity with improved safety and environmental performance. New technologies are emerging and mining companies are committed to progress within the next few years. What will it take to be prepared to embrace new technologies and processes? We need to work together and help build the new paradigm for mine operations.

Aiming for innovation, interoperability and ease of integration, a case study in strategy implementation

We at Scania has recently launched our first autonomous product – developed with the aim of innovation, interoperability and ease of integration.  We would like to share some insights on how it went, and where we are going next 

GMG’s Time Usage Models

GMG has two Time Usage Model projects underway:

A Standardized Time Classification Framework for Mobile Equipment in Surface Mining: Operational Definitions, Time Usage Model, and Key Performance Indicators = This framework provides a structured time classification system for surface mining equipment, allowing for accurate performance analysis and inter-company comparisons. It includes:

A Time Usage Model that visually categorizes operational activities.
Standardized definitions for key metrics such as overall equipment effectiveness (OEE), mean time between failures (MTBF), and mean time to repair (MTTR).
Guidance on data collection methodologies, ensuring uniform reporting across fleets.

Underground Time Usage Model = This project has two deliverables:

Equipment Time Usage Model and KPIs: The objective is to create an equipment time model that aligns with the existing surface equipment TUM so common terminology and metrics can be used across all mining equipment and operations.
At-Face Classification Framework: This project will provide a classification framework for underground operational activity related to the workplaces and their mining cycle which may influence performance analysis and industry-wide comparison.

Presentation on Kiteshield

April 9 (AM) - Harnessing AI and the Applications of Data

Boliden Edge Lab

The session will explore the origins of Boliden Edge Lab and why it was a crucial step for Boliden in accelerating its AI journey. It will highlight how the lab enables R&D activities in AI for process control and mine automation applications.

The Role of AI in the Future of Mining – From Hype to Practical Impact

AI is often portrayed as this transformative force capable of revolutionizing industries overnight. With a push of a button, AI will sort out all your problems and throw in a cup of coffee – just because it can. To what extend is this hype, and how much is truly practical? In mining, an industry with significant operational complexities and legacy systems, this question is critical.

The mining industry has historically been slow to adopt new technologies due to high capital investment requirements and the need for proven reliability. However, as the global push for automation and autonomous mining operations accelerates, AI is emerging as an increasingly compelling solution.

In this talk, we will distinguish between AI hype and its real-world impact, explore the lessons from the mining industry, and examine AI’s role in advancing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) objectives.

Digital Transformation at LKAB: Leveraging Data and AI

In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, we will explore how LKAB is leveraging data and artificial intelligence into our mining operations. We’ll discuss the practical applications of these technologies and their role in improving efficiency and sustainability. Learn about the steps we’re taking towards digital transformation and the challenges we face along the way

Panel: Readiness for AI – Implementation and Case Studies

As artificial intelligence continues to transform industries, mining companies are exploring how to effectively adopt and integrate AI solutions into their operations. This panel will bring together industry leaders and technology experts to share real-world case studies and practical approaches for implementing AI in mining

Lior Herman, Head of OptiMine Mining Data Platform, Newtrax & Head of Telemetry & Ai, Sandvik
Magnus Töyrä, Strategist – Digital Transformation, LKAB (Moderator)
Mikael Ramstrom, Vice-President, Digital Solutions, Epiroc
Rasmus Tammia, Program Manager – AI in Mining, Boliden
Tyron Vardy, Portfolio Head of Industrial Software, ABB Process Industries

Working Session: AI in Mining: Tackling Industry Challenges with Smart Solutions

As the industry navigates increasing complexities—ranging from operational inefficiencies and workforce shortages to sustainability goals and real-time decision-making—AI and data analytics are proving to be game-changers. Participants will work together to identify actionable strategies for integrating AI into mining operations.

GMG: Innovation through Industry Collaboration (Part 2)

Digital Transformation in Mining: My Journey

2016 – Sandvik: Managing MySandvik Connected Fleet

I was hired by Sandvik to oversee the MySandvik connected fleet initiative, integrating various agile cloud services into a single platform. I navigated the complexities of technologies like Power BI Embedded, Analysis Services, and IoT messaging, which significantly enhanced operational insights and data analytics capabilities.

2022 – Newtrax: Launching the Mining Data Platform

In 2022, I transitioned to Newtrax to manage the Mining Data Platform. My vision was to create an offline platform that mimics cloud functionality, enabling both OEMs and customers to collaboratively develop tools in an open environment. This approach prioritizes user access and flexibility, allowing customers to manage their data based on their unique operational needs rather than solely adhering to OEM-defined metrics.

Key Vision: Empowering Customers

I believe that successful digital transformation in mining hinges on empowering customers to handle their data in alignment with their operational realities. By fostering an open platform, we can facilitate more effective decision-making and enhance overall productivity.

April 9 (PM) - Achieving Value Through Full-site Integration

Open Discussion: Zero Entry Mining – The Path Forward

The concept of Zero Entry Mining—removing people from hazardous mining environments through automation and remote operations—is rapidly gaining traction as the industry prioritizes safety, efficiency, and sustainability. This panel will bring together industry leaders, technology experts, and operators to explore the progress, challenges, and future direction of Zero Entry Mining. This discussion will offer attendees practical insights and strategic approaches to accelerate their journey toward fully automated and people-removed mining operations, ultimately driving a safer and more efficient future for the industry.

Marko Jokinen, Digital Ecosystem Manager, Sandvik
Peter Burman, Program Manager – Mine Automation, Boliden
Rob McEwan, Product Manager – Mass Mining Automation, Sandvik

Working Session: Shifting to a Systems Approach to Mine Design and Operations

Adopting a systems-based approach can transform mine design and operations, improving efficiency, sustainability, risk management, and long-term value, while fostering greater resilience and adaptability in a rapidly changing industry. Participants will define key elements such as data integration, stakeholder collaboration, operational flexibility, and consideration of environmental and social factors, and explore how these elements work together to create a more holistic approach.

GMG’s projects on geometallurgy

GMG has 2 guideline projects under development focussing on geometallurgy:

Common Data Reporting Guidelines for Geometallurgy =

Standardized reporting enhances data management, interoperability, and predictive modeling. The guideline covers:
Structured Data schemas: Defining common formats for comminution, flotation, and leaching tests.
Automated Mineralogy Standards: Consistency in X-Ray Diffraction, hyperspectral imaging, and particle size analysis.

Guideline for Representative Sampling in Geometallurgy = This guideline establishes best practices for geometallurgical sampling, including:

Sampling Design: Statistical techniques for selecting representative samples.
Measurement Uncertainty Reduction: Methods for minimizing bias and ensuring repeatability.
Data-Driven Process Control: Linking sample data with real-time mineral processing adjustments.

“It’s all about productivity, stupid” OR why new production systems are essential

Alexandra Voronchikhina, Head of Section Mine Planning, Boliden

With 17 years of experience in the mining industry, Alexandra has developed a deep expertise in both open pit and underground mining operations. Her career spans multiple countries, including Russia, Norway, and Sweden, where she has gained valuable international experience.

She has held a wide range of roles, starting as a Dispatch Assistant and advancing through various engineering positions to her current expertise in Mine Planning. Throughout her career, she has been actively involved in the development and implementation of Total Underground Mining (TUM) strategies across all Boliden sites, contributing to operational improvements and safety standards.

A passionate advocate for both mining and the people within the industry, Alexandra is dedicated to advancing practices that enhance the industry’s efficiency and the well-being of those who work in it.

Anders Lindkvist, Product Manager, Epiroc

Anders is global product manager for the large minetrucks at Epiroc. In his portfolio, there are groundbreaking trucks such as the MT42 SG Trolley and the 66-ton truck with electric drivetrain MT66 S eDrive.

He has a background as M.Sc. in mechanical engineering with more than 30 years of experience in product management, whereof 12 with electrification at Epiroc.

Andreas Simoncic, Business Development Manager - Mining Nordics, Sandvik

Andreas has 18 years of experience of working in the IT and Industrial Automation industries, with mission critical computer center systems and High-End Industrial automation/robotics solutions.

He has been an entrepreneur in the mining industry for a decade and has in this role co-funded several junior exploration companies, incl. a mine re-opening project

Today Andreas holds the position as Business Developer, Mining at Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions, supporting mining customers in the Nordics, primarily with Mining automation and digitalization solutions.

Christian Grante, Senior Specialist - Autonomous Vehicle Systems, Combitech

Bio to come

Daniel Schröder, Business Development Manager Mining, Scania Autonomous Solutions

10+ years in Business Development roles at Scania – working with new market establishments and partnership development. Previous background in production engineering and logistics. 

Erik Svedlund, Global Business Manager Sustainability, Epiroc

Erik joined Atlas Copco in 2003 and has held several key positions throughout his career. He started as a Service Engineer in 2004 before transitioning to Product Manager in 2008. In 2010, he took on the role of Product Manager – Electrification, followed by Global Marketing Manager – Electrification in 2017. In 2019, he became Head of Marketing and Business Development for Epiroc Electrification. Since 2024, Erik has served as the Global Business Manager – Sustainability at Epiroc Group.

Lior Herman, Head of OptiMine Mining Data Platform, Newtrax & Head of Telemetry & Ai, Sandvik 

Lior Herman is the Head of Mining Data Platform and AI at Sandvik, based in Tampere, Finland. With a strong background in data-driven mining technologies, he has held key roles in fleet connectivity, telemetry, and AI. From 2016 to 2020, he served as Product Owner for MySandvik Fleet Connectivity, followed by his role as Head of Telemetry and AI at Newtrax from 2022 to 2024. In 2024, he took on his current position, leading Sandvik’s efforts in mining data platforms and AI innovation. Lior holds an M.Sc. in Computer Science from Haifa, Israel.

Håkan Mann, IT Project Manager, Zinkgruvan Mining

Håkan Mann is an experienced project leader with a dynamic background in business development and technology implementation across multiple industries. Since 2018, he has served as an IT Project Manager at Zinkgruvan Mining in Zinkgruvan, Sweden, where he leads digitalization efforts and technology-driven transformation projects within mining operations.

Prior to his current role, Håkan built a strong foundation in innovation and strategic growth. From 2010 to 2018, he focused on business development in carbon composites and lightweight constructions, advancing materials solutions for modern engineering challenges. Earlier in his career, he held business development roles in the glass recycling industry (2005–2010) and the packaging industry (2000–2005), where he was instrumental in driving sustainable and cost-effective initiatives.

With over two decades of cross-sector experience, Håkan brings a forward-thinking mindset and practical insight into applying emerging technologies to optimize industrial performance.

Heather Ednie, CEO, Global Mining Guidelines Group (GMG)

Heather Ednie is an influential mining professional with over 20 years of experience in the mining and metals sector, specializing in communications and association management.

In 2012, she became the Managing Director of the Global Mining Guidelines Group (GMG), focusing on advancing innovation in mining to improve safety, sustainability, and productivity. She was appointed CEO in 2021.

In 2021, Heather co-founded Global Collaboration Services (GCS), providing shared services to small organizations. She also became Managing Director of the Metals and Mining Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MM-ISAC), aiming to enhance cyber resiliency in the mining sector.

Previously, Heather led Modica Communications, a firm dedicated to promoting safe and responsible Canadian mining. From 2004 to 2009, she revitalized the Canadian Institute of Mining’s media and communications department.

Heather is a member of Mensa Canada, former Vice-Chair of Women in Mining Canada, and a founding member of the Women in Mining Montreal Branch.

Magnus Töyrä, Digital Strategist, LKAB

Magnus has worked in the IT business for 30 years, mostly as a consultant helping different industries.

His last role before LKAB was as a solution architect for blockchain, analytics and AI.

Joined LKAB 3 years ago and are now working mainly with digitalization in the mines and AI.

Marko Jokinen, Digital Ecosystem Manager, Sandvik

Marko Jokinen is an experienced automation and digital ecosystems leader with a strong background in mining technology. He has been with Sandvik in Tampere, Finland, since 2008, holding key roles in automation project management and digital transformation. His career includes positions as Global Sourcing Manager (2008-2011), Project Manager (2012-2018), and Senior NDP Project Manager (2018-2020), before taking on his current role as Digital Ecosystem Manager, Automation, in 2020. Marko holds a Master’s degree in Computer Science from Helsinki, Finland, and has played a significant role in advancing automation solutions within the industry.

Mikael Ramström, Vice-Chair, GMG & Vice President Digital Solutions, Epiroc

Mikael Ramström graduated from Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden with a M.Sc. in Electrical engineering in 1992. Mikael worked for five years control and automation system for the European Space Agency (ESA). Since 1999 Mikael has been working for Epiroc, former Atlas Copco Mining and Rock Excavation, and currently holds a position as Vice President, Epiroc Digital Solutions division with responsibility for R&D incl. Product Management. Since 2013 Sherpa to Epiroc CEO Helena Hedblom in the European Union Innovation Partnership (EIP) on Raw Materials. Mikael has been involved in the European Knowledge and Innovation Community, EIT RawMaterials since 2011 and been Chairman for EIT RawMaterials Northern Co-Location Centre in Luleå.

In addition, Mikael has been a member of the board to Nordic Rock Tech Centre AB, Mobilaris MCE AB as well as a member to the board of SMI, a Strategic Innovation Programme for the Swedish Mining and Metal Producing Industry. During 2017 – 2023 Mikael was member of the board to Luleå University of Technology.

Patrik Westerlund, Project Manager for Electrified Vehicles, Kristineberg Expansion, Boliden

Patrik works in a team responsible for supporting Boliden sites, in their effort to improve productivity by implementing automated and electrified machine systems. He has an M.Sc. in engineering physics and more than 25 years of experience in mining, automation and electrification.

Peter Burman, Program Manager Mine Automation, Boliden

Born 1964, Mr. Burman holds a Master of Science and M.B.A. Mr. Burman has been Project Manager in the Mine Automation Program since 2012. 2015 appointed to Program manager for the whole mine automation Program. Working for Boliden 1988-1995 he left for the telecom business. During 17 years at Ericsson and Ascom he worked in various positions like R&D manager and Business Area Manager.

He is also coordinating Boliden’s contacts with some European universities and research organizations.

Peter Sandberg, Strategic Product Manager Mining, Scania Autonomous Solutions

With 20 years of experience in product development at major companies, including the last four years at Scania Autonomous, I have been deeply involved in advancing autonomous solutions. My work focuses extensively on building strategic partnerships to drive innovation and implementation in this field.

Peter Wallin, Manager Mines Electrification Program, Boliden

Dr. Peter Wallin is the Program Manager for Boliden’s electrification program, leading research activities focused on electrification and automation within mining operations. He has a robust background in both industry and academia. Before joining Boliden, he managed a strategic innovation program at the research institute of Sweden, RISE. Peter’s extensive experience also includes seven years as Technology Research Manager at Volvo Construction Equipment, where he managed the research portfolio and developed key technologies within the construction and mining sectors.

With a Master’s and Ph.D. in Computer Engineering from Mälardalen University, Peter has managed numerous research projects and served on various academic boards across Sweden. His expertise is important in helping Boliden achieve its electrification goals, specifically in enhancing mining truck operations to foster a greener and more efficient future in mining.

Petya Gutzmer, Founder & Managing Director, ERZLABOR Advanced Solutions

Petya Gutzmer, Dr. rer. nat., born 1982 in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria. She graduated with a Master of Science in Economic Geology from the Technical University Bergakademie Freiberg in 2012 and completed her doctorate in geoscience at the University of Tübingen in 2020. From 2012 to 2023, she worked as a researcher and project coordinator for the Helmholtz Institute Freiberg for Resource Technology. Petya is also a founder and managing director of ERZLABOR Advanced Solutions GmbH, a service provider of high-level materials characterization and expert consulting services in geometallurgy.

Rasmus Tammia, Program Manager - AI in Mining, Boliden

Rasmus Tammia is the R&D Program Manager for AI in Mining at Boliden. He holds a Master’s degree in Applied Physics and Electrical Engineering from Linköping University. After graduating, he worked on developing control algorithms for Scania’s biogas engines. Since 2019, Rasmus has been part of Boliden’s team, creating cutting-edge solutions for process control.

Rob McEwan, Product Manager - Mass Mining Automation, Sandvik

Product Manager, Sandvik – Tampere, Finland (2023-present)
Application Engineer – Underground Mining Automation, Sandvik – Tampere, Finland (2023)
Global Relational Program, Sandvik – USA, Finland, Sweden (2021-2023)
M.S. Mechanical Engineering, Ohio, USA (2021)

Robert Olsson, Senior RAN Design Engineer, Telia Company

Robert Olsson is a Senior RAN Designer at Telia Company, with extensive experience in radio network design across the Nordics and Baltics, including 4G and 5G private networks. He is also actively involved in the Telia-Ericsson NorthStar program, which enables customers to leverage the latest advanced 5G SA technology.

Stefan Thornburn, PhD, Senior Scientist, ABB Corporate Research

Stefan Thorburn has a PhD in Power System Stability and have been working for 26 years at ABB Corporate Research in Sweden. The last 5 years, his research focus has been on the decarbonization of industry in general with focus on mining, metal and pulp and paper industries.

Tyron Vardy, Portfolio Head of Industrial Software, ABB Process Industries

Tyron Vardy is ABB’s Global Digital Portfolio Leader for Process Industries. Responsible for software solutions across Asset Performance, Process Performance, Sustainability, Operations Management and AI. Prior to this, he spent 20 years in Honeywell’s Advanced Solutions/Connected Enterprise division, before becoming the Chief Product Officer for a global retail energy company.

GMG STOCKHOLM FORUM

April 8 – 9, 2025

Schedule

Peter Wallin

Erik Svedlund

Patrik Westerlund

Anders Lindkvist

Stefan Thornburn

Heather Ednie

Daniel Schröder

Peter Sandberg

Alexandra Voronchikhina

Christian Grante

Rasmus Tammia

Mikael Ramström

Magnus Töyrä

Heather Ednie

Lior Herman

Petya Gutzmer

Peter Burman

Speakers

Alexandra Voronchikhina

Anders Lindkvist

Andreas Simoncic

Christian Grante

Daniel Schröder

Erik Svedlund

Lior Herman

Håkan Mann

Heather Ednie

Magnus Töyrä

Marko Jokinen

Mikael Ramström

Patrik Westerlund

Peter Burman

Peter Sandberg

Peter Wallin

Petya Gutzmer

Rasmus Tammia

Rob McEwan

Robert Olsson

Stefan Thornburn

Tyron Vardy

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