The ReGeneration Project [copper leaching]

One of the highest costs associated with in situ leaching of copper is electric power. The ReGeneration Project addressed this cost issue with a research and development project for BHP Copper. The project involved the installation of a reverse pump/turbine for the removal of excessive fluid pressure and the production of useful electric power. The motivation for the project was that a reverse pump/turbine unit could not only remove the excess hydraulic pressure, but when connected to an induction generator would produce electric power, which could be easily connected to the local power grid, thus reducing operating costs. The project was successful in removing excess fluid pressure and producing electricity. The unit is operating today, producing useful 2300 volt power at a rate of approximately 128 kilowatts.