As 2025 comes to a close, ABB’s Björn Jonsson, Business Line Manager Mining & Materials, Process Industries division, has shared some thoughts on the new year ahead. “From deep underground shafts to sprawling open pits and processing plants, mining is changing – and fast. Demand for critical materials is surging, expected to increase by up to 50-60% by 2040, and ore deposits are spread across more remote corners of the globe than ever before. At the same time, mining operators must scale operations against a backdrop of industry pressure to decarbonise.”
He argues that mine operators are currently sitting at the inflection point of transformation. The technology choices they make next year will determine whether their operations thrive or fall behind in the next decade. “Understandably, mine operators favour established, proven technologies that offer reliability and peace of mind. Even so, 73% believe that successful mining transformation calls for innovative approaches to technology and risk management.”
Jonsson says that in 2026, mining operators have an important choice to make. They can either wait for the ‘perfect’ technology to arrive, or make incremental changes now with solutions that are already proving their value.
Small steps, big impact
Today, one of the major transformations occurring across the mining industry is its overarching view of technology. According to ABB’s Mining’s Moment report, 77% of mining leaders recognise the potential of electrification, automation and digitalisation as the tools that can reshape mines from the ground up.
Jonsson: “However, misconceptions linger. Many still think adopting the latest advancements in technology requires an instant overhaul and that it must be transformative from day one. Yet, the most successful operators are starting small, learning fast and scaling strategically. Pilot projects around the world are proving that incremental steps work. Boliden in Sweden have implemented targeted automation and electrification initiatives to improve safety, boost productivity and cut energy use while remaining aligned with sustainability goals. These examples show that transformation doesn’t require a leap of faith. Even small, well-planned interventions can deliver measurable impact and build confidence for broader adoption.”
He points out that electrification technologies, for instance, are cutting emissions while improving working conditions. By replacing diesel-powered machinery such as haulage systems with electrified alternatives, mines can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality underground. Electric equipment is quieter, and generates less vibration and heat, creating safer, more comfortable environments for employees. Adopting electric drivetrains means fewer moving parts which, in turn, results in less maintenance than fossil-fuel-based systems, helping reduce downtime and extend equipment life.
ABB’s eMine™ FastCharge had completed over 12,000 connections by November 2025 with a high success rate
Meanwhile, automation completely changes the human-machine workload in mines. “Repetitive and hazardous tasks such as drilling, hauling, and material sorting can now be handled by automated systems, reducing human exposure to dangerous conditions. Automation solutions also increase precision, allowing operations to run smoothly and efficiently, while freeing employees to focus on higher-value tasks. Finally, the wealth of real-time data provided by automated processes enables operation managers to monitor performance and make faster, better-informed decisions for continuous improvements.”
Digitalisation ties it all together, converting raw operational data into actionable intelligence. “By collecting and analysing data from across the mine, be that equipment performance or material flows, operators gain real-time insights that allow them to anticipate issues before they escalate. For example, predictive maintenance can identify when machinery is likely to require servicing, which prevents costly downtime to keep operations running smoothly. Combined, these tools don’t just improve performance; they redefine what it means to work in a modern mine.”
Safer, smarter, stronger
Looking beyond operations, Jonsson says technology is also changing the workforce. Modern tools reduce physical strain and improve safety. This, blended with a technology-first approach, will attract a new generation of workers seeking purpose-driven careers in high-tech environments. “By investing in both tools and people, mining companies can create resilient, future-ready teams capable of sustaining operational excellence.”
He argues that the key to success is pragmatism. “Ambitious visions of fully automated, electrified, and data-driven mines are exciting. But they aren’t built overnight. The measured, incremental approach supported by modular designs, robust standards and trusted technology partners offers a sustainable path forward. Next year, starting small will allow mine operators to test solutions, learn quickly and scale efficiently, turning innovation into reliable, long-term assets.”
This practical approach to transformation will align with broader sustainability objectives and evolving regulatory requirements. “Electrification cuts emissions, automation enhances efficiency, and digitalisation improves transparency and resource use. Companies that demonstrate steady, measurable progress in these areas will not only future-proof operations but also have the insights needed to respond to increasing pressure from regulators, investors and local communities.”
He concludes: “Mining’s moment is about action over perfection. Practical phased transformation will drive measurable results next year. The mines that embrace this approach will not just meet today’s challenges; they will set the standard for the future of the industry. The mine of tomorrow is already here; we just need to unlock its potential.”