Developer plans to build pilot plant for its Gulf project

MAYUR Resources plans to build a pilot plant for its Orokolo Bay Industrial sands project in Gulf this year, according to recent market release to Australian Securities Exchange (ASX).
It said this followed its purchase of plant equipment and mobile machinery last December.
The project will consist of a mineral sands resource that could be developed through a simple onshore, surface sand mining and processing operation.
Progress so far on the project includes:

• Commenced fabrication of the steelwork for the project in China. Mayur is due to undertake acceptance inspections anytime month;
• A detailed site investigation trip to confirm barging routes for access to and from the pilot plant through the Muro wharf;
• Recruitment of national staff for the bulk sampling operation; and,
• Completed landowner compensation agreements.

Meanwhile, the company said its proposed 52.5 megawatt Enviro Energy Park (EEP) project in Lae was to improve reliability of supply and reduce cost and environmental footprint of power generation in the city by displacing current reliance on imported diesel and fuel oil.
The project would comprise of an integrated solar, biomass woodchip, and coal plant.
The company has received revised engineering, procurement and construction bids for the project which included a new alternative boiler design enabling use of up to 50 per cent biomass fuel and thus a lower utilisation of coal.
It has also drafted a submission to the Government for the progression of the power purchase agreement of the project.