Industrials

<h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Q1. Could you start by giving us a brief overview of your professional background, particularly focusing on your expertise in the industry?</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">I obtained a BSc in electrical power engineering in 1977 and a Ph.D. in 1983 for research on electric arc interruption in SF6 gas.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">From 1978 to 1987, I worked at the National Utility Company in Argentina, where I worked with MV and HV switchgear and network protection.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">In 1988, I joined Yorkshire Switchgear (UK) as an R&amp;D manager in charge of MV switchgear development. &nbsp;The company was acquired by Schneider Electric in 1989. &nbsp;I held several positions at Schneider Electric UK as MV switchgear marketing manager, protection and control business development manager, and commercial director.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">In 2005, I moved to France as vice president of Global Business Development. In 2007, I was vice president of Marketing for the MV Switchgear Global Business Unit. In 2015, I was vice president of the Power Systems Global Competency Centre, which specialized in solutions for data centres, oil and gas, and mining. I retired in May 2022 after 38 years at Schneider Electric.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Q2. What are the latest technological advancements in MV and LV switchgear design, particularly regarding sustainability and efficiency?</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">The latest technological advance in MV switchgear is the development of SF6-free equipment, which will come into force in January 2026, to comply with EU environmental legislation banning the use of SF6 gas.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">The other development common to MV and LV switchgear is the introduction of sensors that allow remote monitoring and condition-based maintenance.</p><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><br><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Q3. How are these advancements influencing the applications and demand in key sectors like utilities and renewable energy installations?</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Remote monitoring reduces maintenance costs and increases network reliability (fewer unplanned interruptions).</p><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><br><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Q4. With the increasing demand for data storage and processing, how is the hyperscale data center market driving the development of specialized electrical power systems?</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Hyperscale data centres require large amounts of secure power. The technology is mature, and most designs have already been optimized. Increasing power needs can be satisfied by simply increasing the number of modules.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br>Q5. Who are the leading companies providing electrical power systems specifically tailored for mining operations, and what are their competitive advantages and market shares?</p><p style="text-align: justify;">The top three providers of electrical equipment for mining power systems are:</p><ul style="text-align: justify;"><li>ABB</li><li>Siemens</li><li>Schneider Electric</li></ul><p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Q6. What opportunities exist for mining companies to lead in innovation by testing new electrical system technologies that could set industry standards?</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Innovation in mining power systems is driven by linking to industrial process control to optimize energy use. Remote monitoring and control of equipment is another area of innovation.</p><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><br><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Q7. If you were an investor looking at companies within the space, what critical question would you pose to their senior management?</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Critical questions are:</p><ul style="text-align: justify;"><li>What percentage of the total offer for power systems solutions is provided using in-house products and equipment? (width of the catalog)</li><li>What competencies and design tools do the company have to help customers optimize the power systems and industrial processes?</li><li>What level of support services can the company provide for global end users?</li></ul><p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p><p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Expert Summary</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Juan Tobias is an Independent Consultant with 37+ years of experience in power systems, specializing in XL data centers, oil &amp; gas, mining, and grid-connected wind farms. He advises EPCs and end users on power system design optimization and equipment selection, while also developing hands-on coaching programs for emerging engineers. Previously, as VP of the Power Systems Solutions Competency Center at Schneider Electric, he led global technical teams, drove cross-BU collaboration, and developed expert talent to support complex electrical distribution projects across South America and beyond.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p><p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>