Mineral Resources (MinRes) has embarked on an exciting new chapter in its lithium growth story with significant upgrades underway at the Mt Marion lithium operation in the Goldfields region of Western Australia.
The Mt Marion lithium operation is a world-class asset jointly owned by Mineral Resources (50%) and one of the largest lithium hydroxide producers, Jiangxi Ganfeng Lithium Co. Ltd. (50%). The operation produces high-quality lithium spodumene concentrate, which is converted to lithium hydroxide by Ganfeng in China to support the manufacture of world-leading battery products including Apple iPhones and Tesla electric vehicles.
Earlier this year, in response to a strengthened global lithium market and positive metallurgical test results at Mt Marion, MinRes and Ganfeng announced a decision to increase spodumene production from 450,000 tonnes per year to 600,000 tonnes per year – with a further increase to 900,000 tonnes per year targeted for the end of 2022.
To support expanded production capacity, significant enhancements are now underway across Mt Marion operations. This includes upgrades to the site’s crushing and processing plant, workshop, warehouse, and site offices, plus a strengthened mobile equipment fleet and new and improved access roads to further support safe and efficient transport to and from site.
The employee experience at the Mt Marion village will also benefit from the construction of 140 additional accommodation rooms – growing capacity to 400 rooms – plus refurbishments to the site’s kitchen, mess, gym, and common areas.
Improvements across operational and village facilities are scheduled to be completed in early 2023.
MinRes Chief Executive – Lithium, Paul Brown, said upgrades at Mt Marion would further strengthen MinRes’ position as a globally significant producer of lithium products and offer an even better environment for employees to perform at their best and make the most of their time on site.
“Lithium is one of MinRes’ core commodities and through our strong industry foresight and ambitious growth strategy, we’ve built a long-term business horizon that will guide us to expand and diversify our lithium portfolio in line with global demand,” Paul said.
“Doubling capacity at Mt Marion means this Tier 1 asset will become even more important to MinRes’ ongoing success, helping us continue making valuable contributions to the world’s renewable energy efforts and further support our people to build long and fulfilling careers.”
As the world focusses on decarbonisation and achieving emissions targets, lithium-ion batteries remain critical to a renewable energy future and MinRes is well-positioned to service the growing demand for high-quality lithium products.
MinRes’ portfolio of lithium assets includes ownership of two of the world’s largest hard rock lithium mines and strategic partnerships with global leaders in the production and supply of battery-grade lithium hydroxide, the preferred lithium product for global battery manufacturers.
Looking for fresh opportunities? Mt Marion is the perfect place to start.
Growing your mining career with MinRes offers a range of benefits including lifestyle-friendly 2/2 rosters, professional growth and development opportunities, long-term job security, and generous bonuses.
Learn more and browse our current employment opportunities at careers.mineralresources.com.au.
