Industry Leaders

Information Technology and Automation Manager, Codelco, Chile Information Technology and Automation Manager, Codelco, Chile

Marco Orellana

“The high cost of energy is not a threat for automation but rather an opportunity”


As Chair of the Automining 2012 conference, Marco Orellana defends the belief that innovation and new proposals is the way in which to ensure automation in mining continues to move forward. Moreover, the IT and Automation manager at Codelco highlights the importance of collaboration between mining companies and professionals in order guarantee that projects have positive results. “Personally, I am convinced that the way forward is working together with other mining and supplier companies. This seminar is an opportunity to create those networks,” he emphasised.

19 October 2012

John Meech, Co-Chair of Automining 2012, recently commented that Chile is ahead on issues concerning automation. Do you share this same view?
Important things are happening in Chile regarding automation although I think that leadership in the field is shared. Chile has a leadership role but so do other parts of the world; Australia and Canada, for example. I think that we have an advantage here in Chile because we are working on mining projects and using cutting-edge automation technologies. However, we should not become complacent. We have to continue working and continue believing that automation is really transforming the industry. Sometimes it is difficult to trust in new technology, but we have to believe in our projects in order to move forward.

What are the major threats to automation development in Chile?
Firstly, there is the issue of human resources. We need more professionals and engineers who are working in the field of automation. One of the most difficult things for us today is finding qualified professionals.
Additionally, there is the risk factor. It is difficult for us to take risks; we are rather conservative and tend towards what has always worked. I would say that those are the two variables to consider.


Does the issue of high energy costs in Chile create a threat?
The fact that energy is actually more expensive means that companies need to better manage energy efficiency. I think that this particular issue is an opportunity for automation. Energy efficiency is a topic that was not talked about in companies two years ago, but today we are all looking at the issue. The way to be more energy efficient is to use automation even more. The high cost of energy is not a threat at all, it is an opportunity.

Interview date: 19 October 2012