Name of the Project
Grootegeluk rapid load-out station project.
Location
Limpopo, South Africa.
Project Owner/s
Exxaro Resources.
Project Description
The Grootegeluk Exxaro opencast coal mine, in Lephalale, is forecasting a number of export-product growth opportunities in the next five years. Subsequently, an upgrade to the current rail siding loading facilities will be required.
The project is a strategic project that allows for growth and future projects at Grootegeluk. The project is aligned with Transnet Freight Rail’s (TFR’s) North-West corridor expansion project.
To load an additional 12-million tonnes a year and comply with the latest TFR strategy to accommodate a 200-wagon train will necessitate the complete upgrade of rail and associated infrastructure.
The product beds, conveyors, transfer stations and load-out station will be designed to load various types of product from across the plant area and will vary from export to domestic products.
The new train load-out facilities include the upgrade of the current siding with an extra loop that will be fed by a new 3 500 t rapid load-out station silo. The scope of work comprises a bulk materials handling area and the rail loop area.
Potential Job Creation
The Exxaro project team comprises 37 people and the contractors comprise an estimated 850 people for the duration of the project.
Net Present Value/Internal Rate of Return
Not stated.
Capital Expenditure
The project will be developed at an estimated cost of R1.33-billion.
Planned Start/End Date
The project started in September 2015, with project close expected in the second half of 2020.
Latest Developments
Hot commissioning and project close are under way, with the project on track for financial close in the second half of 2020.
Key Contracts, Suppliers and Consultants
R&H Rail (detailed engineering for rail loop area); Hatch Goba (detailed engineering for bulk materials handling area); Virtuoso (early works construction); and Murray & Roberts (rail civil and plate-laying construction).
Contact Details for Project Information
Exxaro Resources executive head: strategy and stakeholder engagement Mzila Mthenjane, tel +27 12 307 7393 or email investorrelations@exxaro.com.