Silver Creek Mine, a small underground silver mining operation, has noticed an

increase in energy costs and a decline in operational efficiency over the past year. The

mine relies heavily on electric$-$powered machinery and an outdated ventilation system.

A recent review highlighted that nearly $20\%$ of the mine$$s energy is wasted due to

inefficient equipment and processes. The mine$$s management wants to reduce energy

consumption by $10\%$ in the next $12$ months and improve overall operational efficiency.

They are seeking recommendations for quick, cost$-$effective measures that can be

implemented without causing significant disruptions to mining activities.

$2\mathrm{.}1.$ Identify two key areas where energy efficiency improvements can be made at

Silver Creek Mine. Explain why these areas were chosen and how they

contribute to high energy consumption. $(7$ Marks$)$

$2\mathrm{.}2.$ Evaluate the potential benefits of replacing the outdated electric$-$powered

machinery with more energy$-$efficient alternatives. What factors should be

considered before making this decision? $(10$ Marks$)$

$2\mathrm{.}3.$ What is one quick and cost$-$effective action Silver Creek Mine can take to

immediately reduce energy consumption in its operations?