The definitive feasibility study (DFS) for Centaurus Metals’ Jaguar nickel sulphide project has been rescheduled to release in the first quarter of 2024 (Q1 2024) from Q4 2023.
Centaurus cited Ausenco, its lead engineering group, requesting a minor timetable extension to complete capital and operating cost estimation and project implementation scheduling as the reason for the delay.
“The finalisation of the capital and operating cost estimate is reliant on the timely submission of proposals by various external suppliers and contractors,” Centaurus said.
“Ausenco has advised Centaurus that receipt and detailed evaluation of such proposals is going to take slightly longer than originally scheduled.
“The delays experienced by Ausenco through their supplier and logistics chains are being experienced across the industry and are not unique to the Jaguar project but have resulted in the need for additional time to complete these key work streams to the required standard while also allowing Centaurus sufficient time to complete a detailed review of the DFS inputs prior to the release of the study to the market.”
The DFS’ delay may push the project’s final investment decision to Q4 2024, however Centaurus said the timing will be decided once the DFS is completed and the strategic partnering process makes further progress.
“The company believes it is prudent to grant Ausenco the necessary time to complete the study to the highest standard to ensure the delivery of a robust DFS that accurately represents Jaguar’s enormous potential,” Centaurus said.
The Jaguar nickel sulphide project is located in the western portion of the Carajas mineral province of Brazil.
In April 2020, Centaurus acquired the project from Vale S.A. and in June 2023 it acquired 100 per cent of the offtake rights for all Jaguar nickel products from Vale.
Subscribe to Australian Mining and receive the latest news on product announcements, industry developments, commodities and more.
