At first glance, the Diavik Diamond Mine in Canada’s remote northern territories may seem like just another operation extracting precious stones from the ground. However, it has now become a shining example of renewable energy innovation in an industry not typically associated with sustainability. Far from just producing diamonds, the mine is generating an impressive 4.2 million kilowatt-hours of clean energy annually—a revolutionary achievement in the world of mining.
How the Diavik Diamond Mine Became a Solar Energy Pioneer
The Diavik Diamond Mine is making headlines not for its diamonds, but for its groundbreaking transition to clean energy. Owned by Rio Tinto Mining, the site now hosts a 3.5 MW solar power station—the largest off-grid solar project in all of Canada’s territories. With 6,620 solar panels designed to capture both direct sunlight and light reflected off the snowy tundra, this innovative project is transforming how mining operations generate power.
This solar installation produces 4.2 million kilowatt-hours of clean energy annually, significantly reducing the mine’s reliance on diesel fuel. The shift saves approximately one million liters of diesel each year and cuts 2,900 tonnes of CO₂ emissions—the equivalent of removing 630 cars from the road. This large-scale renewable energy initiative represents a monumental step forward for a sector notorious for its heavy environmental footprint.
Breaking Ground in Renewable Energy
The adoption of renewable energy at Diavik marks a transformative moment for the mining industry. Traditionally, mining operations have relied heavily on fossil fuels, contributing to significant greenhouse gas emissions. Diavik is rewriting that narrative. With plans to close the mine by the end of 2026, the solar and wind power systems in place will continue to provide 20-25% of the site’s energy needs during its three years of post-closure work. This ensures that the environmental benefits of these renewable energy systems extend beyond the mine’s active life.
Matthew Breen, Chief Operating Officer at Diavik, highlighted the significance of this milestone: “This project proved that we are residents of the environment in which we transact our business.” By committing to cleaner energy sources, Rio Tinto is setting new standards for sustainable mining and redefining what environmental responsibility looks like in the industry. The Government of Northwest Territories also contributed CAD 3.3 million ($2.4 million) to the project, demonstrating strong public support for advancing sustainability goals and strengthening the business-community relationship.
A Sustainable Legacy for the Future
When the Diavik Diamond Mine began production in 2003, its sole focus was extracting diamonds. Situated 186 miles northeast of Yellowknife on Lac de Gras Island, the mine quickly became a symbol of Canada’s northern mining industry. Now, it is carving out a new identity as a leader in renewable energy innovation.
By generating 4.2 million kilowatt-hours of clean energy annually, Diavik is showing that mining and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand. This remarkable transformation underscores that even resource-intensive industries can embrace sustainable practices without sacrificing productivity. As a result, the mine is not only producing diamonds but also helping to pave the way for greener mining practices worldwide.
Rio Tinto’s bold investment in renewable energy at Diavik sets a powerful precedent for what is possible in the mining sector. It sends a clear message that companies can lead responsibly while minimizing their ecological impact. Through innovative solutions like this, the Diavik Diamond Mine demonstrates how industries can transition toward sustainability, balancing economic development with environmental care.
As the world grapples with the urgency of climate change, the Diavik Diamond Mine stands as a testament to what can be achieved when businesses take proactive steps to reduce their carbon footprint. This shift not only benefits the environment but also reinforces the idea that sustainable practices can deliver long-term value to communities and industries alike. In doing so, Diavik is proving that the future of mining doesn’t have to come at the expense of the planet.
