- ABB delivers extended electrification and automation to support tailings dam expansion at Sweden’s largest open-pit copper mine
- Modular systems enabled rapid installation while ensuring minimized downtime and enhanced dam safety
- The infrastructure supports Boliden’s commitment to zero-harm tailings management amid increased demand for copper production
ABB has expanded the electrification and automation infrastructure at Boliden’s Aitik mine, enabling safe and efficient growth of one of Europe’s most important tailings facilities. The upgrade strengthens water storage, recycling and monitoring capabilities, enabling Sweden’s largest open-pit copper mine to safely scale operations amid increased global demand for copper production.
According to the International Energy Agency, global refined copper demand is projected to grow by around 22 percent by 2035 under the Stated Policies Scenario1. To meet this rising demand responsibly, Boliden is advancing sustainable mining practices at its Aitik copper mine, including industry-leading zero-harm tailings management. At the same time, the project aligns with Boliden’s broader investment in long-term resilience, to ensure operations remain efficient and compliant for decades to come.
To enhance tailings facilities in support of the mine’s copper production, Boliden needed new systems to secure power supply, provide real-time oversight of water flows and dam behavior and ensure compliance with the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management2 (GISTM). ABB supplied fast-deployment electrification and control solutions, engineered to withstand the mine’s sub-arctic weather conditions in northern Sweden.
ABB is supporting Swedish mining company Boliden with electrical systems that can support operational efficiency and environmental responsibility. Image ABB 
Once mining stages are complete, reclamation work is carried out to restore the area to become a natural part of the landscape again. Image ABB 
Boliden Aitik is Sweden's largest open-pit copper mine and is located near Gällivare in the north of the country. Image ABB
The ABB offering includes modular e-houses, medium- and low-voltage switchgear, transformers, variable speed drives for pumping stations, and distributed control system ABB Ability™ System 800xA® for automated monitoring. These platforms will enable centralized supervision of energy flows, predictive maintenance alerts and real-time diagnostics capabilities, which are critical for managing dam performance to avoid downtime under shifting operational demands.
“Boliden needed future-proofed infrastructure to keep pace with increased demand for European copper production,” said Björn Jonsson, Global Business Line Manager, Mining & Materials, ABB’s Process Industries division. “Our modular approach allowed us to quickly deliver electrified and automated operations, without compromising on quality or safety standards. By combining our deep mining expertise with advanced technology, Boliden’s Aitik mine sets a new standard for how electrical systems can support both operational efficiency and environmental responsibility.”
“As this is such a crucial project for the future of the Aitik mine, it makes us even more pleased to see it meeting both deadline and budget,” said Peter Nystedt, Manager at Project Office, Boliden.
ABB is a global technology leader in electrification and automation, enabling a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. By connecting its engineering and digitalization expertise, ABB helps industries run at high performance, while becoming more efficient, productive and sustainable so they outperform. At ABB, we call this ‘Engineered to Outrun’. The company has over 140 years of history and around 110,000 employees worldwide. ABB’s shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ABBN) and Nasdaq Stockholm (ABB). www.abb.com
ABB’s Automation business automates, electrifies and digitalizes industrial operations that address a wide range of essential needs – from supplying energy, water and materials, to producing goods and transporting them to market. With its ~26,000 employees, leading technology and service expertise, Automation helps process, hybrid and maritime industries outrun – leaner and cleaner. go.abb/processautomation
1. Global Critical Minerals Outlook 2025
2. Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management - Global Tailings Review
