ABB has delivered expanded electrification and automation systems at Boliden’s Aitik copper mine, supporting the safe and efficient development of one of Europe’s largest tailings storage facilities. The upgrade improves water handling, recycling, and monitoring functions, allowing Sweden’s largest open-pit copper mine to increase capacity while maintaining high safety and environmental standards.
Global demand for refined copper continues to rise, with the International Energy Agency projecting growth of roughly 22 percent by 2035 under its stated policies scenario. In response, Boliden is advancing responsible mining practices at Aitik, with a strong focus on zero-harm tailings management and long-term operational resilience.
To support ongoing copper production, Boliden required reliable power systems, continuous monitoring of water movement and dam stability, and full alignment with the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM). ABB supplied rapidly deployable electrification and control technologies designed to perform reliably in the sub-arctic conditions of northern Sweden.
The scope of supply includes modular electrical houses, medium- and low-voltage switchgear, transformers, variable speed drives for pumping stations, and the ABB Ability™ System 800xA® distributed control system. Together, these technologies provide centralized visibility of energy use, real-time system diagnostics, and predictive maintenance insights—critical for maintaining tailings dam performance under changing operational demands.
“Boliden required infrastructure that could support rising European copper demand while remaining robust for the future,” said Björn Jonsson, Global Business Line Manager for Mining & Materials at ABB Process Industries. “Our modular solutions enabled fast deployment of electrified and automated systems without sacrificing safety or quality. This project demonstrates how advanced electrical and automation technologies can support both productivity and environmental stewardship.”
Peter Nystedt, Project Office Manager at Boliden, added, “Given the importance of this project to the future of the Aitik mine, we are particularly pleased that it was completed on schedule and within budget.”
ABB is a global leader in electrification and automation technologies, supporting industries in improving efficiency, productivity, and sustainability. With more than 140 years of experience and approximately 110,000 employees worldwide, ABB operates across multiple sectors to help customers achieve high-performance operations. The company’s shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange and Nasdaq Stockholm.
ABB’s Automation business focuses on electrifying, automating, and digitalizing industrial processes across energy, water, materials, manufacturing, and transport sectors. With around 26,000 employees, the division supports process, hybrid, and maritime industries with technologies and services designed to deliver cleaner, leaner, and more efficient operations.
