The company is expected to make a final decision on the investment in the next 12 months, reported Australian Mining.
If BHP’s plans proceed, use of autonomous mining haul trucks will be used for the first time.
The company has been testing driverless trucks at Jimblebar iron ore mine in Western Australia and plans to increase the fleet there to 12 trucks.
BHP spokesperson was quoted by the news agency as saying that the Mt Arthur is preparing to study requirements of such a trial, including evaluating potential suppliers, equipment, and equipment modifications.
"If a decision is made to go forward with a field trial, the autonomous truck project would be conducted by a dedicated project team in an area of the mine pit separate from main operations.
"No decision has been made, but we will continue to keep our employees updated," the spokesperson added.
The latest news comes after the NSW Planning Assessment Commission has given green light for an extension of Mt Arthur’s operations until 2026.
NSW Greens mining spokesman Jeremy Buckingham was quoted by NewCastle Herald as saying: "They use the spectre of job losses to demand mining approvals, while at the same time act to implement measures that cut employment."
