Name of the Project
Western Turner syncline Phase 2 (WTS2).

Location
Pilbara, Australia.

Project Owner/s
Rio Tinto.

Project Description
The project aims to sustain the production capacity of Rio Tinto’s Greater Tom Price operations.

The investment in WTS2 will facilitate the mining of existing and new deposits, and includes the construction of a new crusher and 13 km conveyor.

The new conveyor will help lower greenhouse-gas emissions from the mine by 3.5%, compared to road haulage, and the business is continuing to assess additional options to reduce emissions, including renewable-energy solutions.

As part of the investment, the haul truck fleet at the mine will be fitted with autonomous haulage technology to allow for autonomous haulage at WTS2 from 2021.

Potential Job Creation
The investment in the WTS2 mine will help sustain the current workforce at Rio Tinto’s Greater Tom Price production hub. Additionally, at its peak, the construction workforce is expected to reach more than 1 000 people.

Net Present Value/Internal Rate of Return
The project is expected to deliver an attractive internal rate of return, with a capital intensity of about $25/t.

Capital Expenditure
$749-million.

Planned Start/End Date
Pending final government approvals, construction will start in the first quarter of 2020, with the first ore from the crusher expected in 2021.

Latest Developments
Rio Tinto has awarded a A$400-million contract to a joint venture between Mondium and the Monadelphous Group for the design and construction of the WTSP2.

The work is expected to start in the first quarter of this year and will be completed in 2021.

Key Contracts and Suppliers
Mondium and the Monadelphous Group (design and construction contract).

On Budget and on Time?
Too early to state.

Contact Details for Project Information
Rio Tinto, email media.enquiries@riotinto.com.