In this thought-provoking interview, we delve into the intriguing realm of artificial intelligence and its potential to reshape the landscape of coal mining and utilization. Join us as we engage with an expert at the intersection of AI and energy to uncover the promises, challenges, and prospects of integrating cutting-edge technologies into a time-honored sector.

Tell us about yourself and what you do

My name is Adam Kokorkhoev, and I'm a co-founder of FTOREX, a company specializing in commercial brokerage and commodity supply. The company supplies several grades and specifications of high-caloric value coal to customers worldwide, focusing on Southeast Asia and the Middle East. We aim to provide direct contracts and competitive pricing straight from the manufacturers. 

Over the past few years, I have been deeply involved in the coal industry, witnessing a transformative shift driven by the integration of new technologies in our sector. I believe the industry's evolution will be driven by artificial intelligence technology.

How do you envision AI's potential role in the coal industry and its impact on overall efficiency and productivity?

AI can automate and optimize various processes in the coal industry, making them more efficient and accurate. It can determine optimal parameters, analyze coal demand to predict future trends and prices, optimize energy consumption in mining and processing — and more. The big news for the whole industry is the joint launch of the Pangu Mine Model by Huawei and Shandong Energy Group, the world's first commercial AI model for the energy sector and the coal industry in particular. 

The model identified 21 application scenarios related to coal mining, tunneling, primary transportation, auxiliary transportation, lifting, safety monitoring, rock burst prevention, coal preparation, and coking. It's been tested in several coal mines in Shandong, and the whole industry eagerly awaits the results.

In what specific areas of the coal industry do you believe AI technologies could be implemented to optimize operations and processes?

AI technologies can be used to explore deposits, drilling, mining, processing, and equipment maintenance. It can analyze geological data to find promising coal deposits, optimize quality control and accident prevention, monitor coal quality, determine optimal cleaning and sorting parameters, and predict possible failures or breakdowns, increasing overall efficiency.

How can AI be used to improve safety conditions for coal miners and reduce workplace accidents in the coal mining sector?

Introducing this tech can greatly improve miner safety and reduce workplace accidents. Its applications range from accident and working conditions monitoring to security data analysis, virtual training, and automation. Also, AI could eventually replace some underground workers, which would significantly lower risks.