On November 13, ASX-listed Centaurus Metals said the completion of the Final feasibility study (DFS) for the Jaguar nickel sulfide project in Brazil has been delayed to the first quarter of 2024.
The move comes after Ausenco, the lead engineering group, formally requested an extension of the timetable to complete capital and operating cost estimates and project implementation arrangements as it awaits proposals from external suppliers and contractors.
Centaurus said the extended timeline could lead to a final investment decision being delayed until the fourth quarter of 2024.
In addition, the mining company noted that the ongoing strategic partnership process continues to demonstrate the strong and broad strategic interest of the Jaguar project as one of the few large nickel sulfide projects at an advanced stage worldwide. The mineral resources contain nearly one million tons of nickel in the open air nickel sulfide deposit.
"Given the strong level of interest and engagement seen to date, Centaurus is confident that the strategic partnership process will provide an attractive funding package for the project," it said.
The scoping study envisages the development of open pit and underground mines to supply the nickel sulfate plant with 2.7 million tonnes per year over its initial 13-year mine life. The mine is expected to produce an annual output of more than 20,000 tons of recovered nickel for sulfuric acid and more than 9,600 tons of mixed sulfide precipitates.
