Major projects
We are developing the world class nickel project, Barro Alto, with two other nickel projects in the pipeline becoming a significant player in the nickel market.
Barro Alto
Overall capex: $1,800-1,900m
| Country | Brazil |
|---|---|
| Ownership | 100% |
| Incremental production | 36,000 tonnes per annum of nickel |
| Full project capex | $1,800-1,900m |
| Full production | Q3 2012 |
The Barro Alto project is located in the state of Goias, Brazil, approximately 170km from Anglo's existing Codemin nickel operation. The project was approved in December 2006 and is forecast to come into production in Q1 2011. Average production over the 26 year life of mine will be at 36 ktpa of nickel. Once at full production, the operation is expected to be in the lower half of the cash cost curve, and will more than double Anglo American's nickel production. Conventional smelter-refinery technology will be used to process the saprolite ore to produce ferro-nickel, which is a technology already used by Anglo at its existing nickel operations.
Jacaré phase 1 (future unapproved)
Overall capex: TBD
| Country | Brazil |
|---|---|
| Incremental production | 34,000 tonnes per annum |
| Full production | 2016 |
The Jacaré project is located in Brazil and, at full production, is expected to operate in the lower half of the cost curve. Phase 1 of the project could potentially deliver 40 ktpa of nickel, with Phase 2 potentially delivering a further 40 ktpa with cobalt by-products. A conceptual study is expected to be completed in 2010.
Morro Sem Bone (future unapproved)
Overall capex: TBD
| Country | Brazil |
|---|---|
| Incremental production | 32,000 tonnes per annum |
| Full production | 2016 |
Morro Sem Bone is located in Brazil and is expected to operate in the lower half of the cost curve. Potential start-up in 2015 with nickel production of ~30 ktpa. A pre-feasibility study is expected to be completed in 2010.
