Element 25 (ASX:E25) is looking to increase manganese concentrate production at the Butcherbird Manganese Mine in Western Australia to 1.1 million tonnes per annum, while undergoing offtake discussions for the project.
Offtake discussions are expected to be completed in Q1 2026, with a construction contract anticipated to be awarded in April 2026.
Eligible contractors for construction at the Butcherbird Mine have been shortlisted, with SLR engaged to assist with technical and funding due diligence.
A Feasibility Study predicts a nominal production of 1.1 million tonnes per annum of manganese concentrate, providing an 18-year life of mine with an ore reserve of 101.4 million tonnes @ 10.4% manganese.
Produced manganese is intended to supply feedstock for Element 25’s high purity manganese sulphate monohydrate facility in Louisiana, as well as traditional steel markets.
Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility has approved a senior debt facility of up to $50 million for the expansion of the Butcherbird Project, including $42.5 million in senior debt and $7.5 million cost overrun facility.
Element 25 expected to contract mining services for the expansion in Q1, with a site services contract in Q2.
The company intends to reach mechanical completion and commissioning at Butcherbird in Q1 2027.
Write to Maddison Elliott at Mining.com.au
Images: Element 25
