The other opportunity that I see is in seeking unusual types of deposits. Specifically, the prospector would be searching for the stuff no one (or almost no one) is searching for. These deposits are effectively hiding in plain view.

…as an academic argument, when mated to the appropriate engine, is the pump really moving water at the rate of 400 GPM?

What do you do when you’ve located a promising deposit of gold or gemstones, but it’s trapped in solid rock?

Solar energy can be used for any size placer or hard rock mining operation. It is most practical for small and longer-term operations provided your mine is not located in a dense forest.

The more experienced prospectors know these lesser known spots are the types of places where big finds are still made.