Robert Friedland Proposed New Mining Energy Technology
The mining industry aims to reduce energy consumption through pulsed-power electrical ore fracturing technology.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Electric Vehicles
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Robert Friedland has proposed replacing traditional mining grinding mills with pulsed-power electrical technology developed by I-Pulse. The system aims to significantly lower the carbon footprint of mining operations by utilizing short electrical bursts to fracture ore.
Why it matters
This technology targets the high energy demands of mining to address a projected 2040 industry supply gap. By reducing electricity usage, it could help meet the growing demand for metals required for the global transition to electric vehicles.
The system potentially offers an 80% reduction in energy consumption and a 5% increase in metal recoveries. I-Pulse has received a $250 million award from the U.S. Department of Commerce to support these initiatives.
The players
Robert Friedland
He is the founder of Ivanhoe Mines and a prominent executive in the global mining and natural resources sector.
I-Pulse
This company develops pulsed-power electrical technology designed to improve efficiency in various industrial applications.
Ivanhoe Mines
This is a mining company focused on mineral exploration and development, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
I-ROX
This research and development subsidiary of I-Pulse focuses on ore fracturing and material processing technologies.
U.S. Department of Commerce
This executive department of the U.S. federal government works to promote job creation and economic growth through innovation.
The details
The system functions by storing electricity and releasing it in rapid pulses that create shock waves, fracturing ore along mineral boundaries. I-Pulse has converted a $76 million loan from Ivanhoe Mines into equity and is preparing to test the system in the Millungera Basin.
Timeline
In 2023, Ivanhoe Mines converted a $76 million loan into an equity stake in I-Pulse.
In January 2025, I-ROX opened a research centre in Toulouse.
On September 28, 2026, Robert Friedland spoke at the Mining Forum Americas.
The mining industry faces a projected 2040 supply gap.
Roadmap
This innovation represents a significant shift in how mining operations prepare raw materials for battery supply chains. It contrasts with legacy grinding methods and positions I-Pulse to play a critical role in the broader industry push for electrification.
The potential energy efficiency gains could lead to more sustainable sourcing of the raw materials required for electric vehicle batteries. Lower costs for manufacturers may eventually influence the production timelines and availability of future EV models.
The takeaway
Advancements in ore fracturing could fundamentally change the cost structure of metal extraction for green energy production. Investors and industry leaders should monitor testing results in the Millungera Basin to gauge long-term scalability.
Further reading
Learn more about the infrastructure behind clean energy in the Electric Vehicles section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Northern Miner.
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