Florence Copper Project Approaching 40% Completion
VANCOUVER - Taseko Mines Limited reported on construction activities at its Florence Copper project. To date, approximately 300,000 project hours have been worked and there have been no reportable injuries or environmental incidents. There are currently 280 construction personnel at site. All activities are advancing on schedule and as of September 30, 2024, the project is approaching 40% complete. First copper production is still anticipated in the fourth quarter 2025.
Since construction commenced earlier this year, the bulk of activities have been focused on earthworks, concrete, and wellfield drilling. Installation of structural steel, tanks, and process equipment is now underway.
Earthworks and site preparation for the plant area and commercial wellfield – ~75% complete. Concrete foundations for SX/EW plant and associated infrastructure – ~50% complete. Pre-assembly and installation of structural steel for the solvent extraction plant commenced in August. Installation of process equipment commenced in September. Powerline installation – ~65% complete. Wellfield drilling – a total of 34 production wells completed to date, out of a total of 90 to be drilled during the construction phase. Point of compliance well drilling – 9 wells completed to date, out of a total of 18. Construction of process and surface water runoff ponds. Hiring permanent operating staff – 75 of 170 total positions and all but one key management position has been filled.
Stuart McDonald, President & CEO, said, “We are pleased with progress through the first nine months of construction. With approximately 75% of total construction costs now committed, we expect total costs to be within 10-15% of the original US$232 million* estimate. The project remains on track for first copper production in late 2025, which will be a transformative event for our Company.”