Fuel consumption in mining industry using partial least squares structural equation modeling approach
International Journal of Energy Sector Management
ISSN: 1750-6220
Article publication date: 16 July 2021
Issue publication date: 2 November 2021
Abstract
Purpose
Consumption of fossil fuels due to their non-renewability has always been one of the fundamental problems among energy-related issues. Major dependence of mining equipment and activities on energy, fuel and adequate fuel allocation has become of great importance in fuel consumption of mines. Therefore, this study aims to propose a model for optimal fuel allocation for mining industry.
Design/methodology/approach
In this study, partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), as one of the well-known statistical methods, is used to model and analyze fuel consumption pattern in mine industry.
Findings
To show the applicability of the proposed model, the study investigates the model for a real mine in Iran. In this regard, real data of important factors affecting mine fuel consumption are collected. Results of statistical models construct a general formula to calculate the fuel consumption based on three main variables.
Originality/value
Policymaking is one of the important tasks in energy-related organizations. One of the main sectors that uses noticeable amount of fossil fuels is mining industry. Despite the government subsidy for mining in Iran, there is a significant price difference between the price of allocated fuel for mine and the price of the same fuel in the open market. Therefore, this study implements PLS-SEM approach to formulate the fuel consumption pattern under all possible fuel consumption indicators to enable policymakers to make reliable decision for future purposes.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
As with other research, this research has limitations that can be attributed to climate change, multiple hires and layoffs, equipment breakdowns and multiple managers’ attitudes toward reducing fuel consumption.
Citation
Yousefi Nejad Attari, M., Farrashzadeh Miandoab, T., Ejlali, B. and Torkayesh, A.E. (2021), "Fuel consumption in mining industry using partial least squares structural equation modeling approach", International Journal of Energy Sector Management, Vol. 15 No. 6, pp. 1122-1143. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJESM-07-2020-0020
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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