Boliden's Strategic Decision to Boost Backfill Capacity in Garpenberg Mine

Boosting Backfill Capacity in Garpenberg Mine

In a strategic move to enhance production efficiency, Boliden has announced a significant investment aimed at increasing the backfill capacity at their Garpenberg mine. This decision comes in response to years of successful exploration which have resulted in abundant Mineral Reserves and Resources at the site. The company plans to invest around SEK 750 million into a new paste facility that will integrate tailings and binders—referred to as paste—to stabilize the mine rock, thereby optimizing ore tonnage and minimizing environmental disposal requirements.

The President of Boliden’s Business Area Mines, Stefan Romedahl, expressed optimism regarding the project, describing Garpenberg as a world-class deposit with conditions for further developments better than ever. The investment signifies a crucial first step towards gradually increasing the mine's production from the current capacity of 3.5 million tonnes per annum to 4.5 million tonnes.

The newly proposed facility is intended to replace an aging existing paste plant, thereby ensuring minimal disruption during the construction phase. By situating the new facility adjacent to the current one, Boliden anticipates reducing costs associated with additional infrastructure while maintaining operational continuity. While the primary phase of this investment is projected to be completed by 2026, significant technical and logistical steps are necessary to reach the desired production levels.

To increment production capacity to 4.5 million tonnes annually, the company has submitted an application for a permit and is further investigating enhancements in mine production, underground operations, ore transport systems, and the concentrator's efficiency. If the necessary permissions are granted, Boliden aims to gradually increase production beyond the currently licensed limit, aligning with advances being made in operational methodologies.

The ongoing evaluations of mine production capabilities also include a focus on developing hoisting facilities, processing methods, and expanding tailings capacity. As Boliden continues its investment and development strategies, it remains committed to ensuring sustainability along with operational efficiency, thereby positioning itself as a leader within the mining sector.

Overall, this development not only reflects Boliden’s commitment to improving production capabilities and safety at the Garpenberg mine but also indicates a broader industry trend toward sustainable mining practices. As the mining sector faces increasing pressures for environmental accountability, initiatives like these position companies to better manage their operational impacts while still aiming for enhanced productivity and profitability.

For additional insights or inquiries, please reach out to Klas Nilsson, Director of Group Communications, at Boliden. He can be contacted at +46 70 453 65 88 or via email at klas.nilsson@boliden.com.