Introduction

Engaged initially for exploration program support development of a new thermal coal deposit in Turkey, leading to estimation of JORC Resources and a Scoping Study for the asset.

Mandate

Palaris was initially engaged to provide guidance to the Client for best practices in coal exploration and data capture. The scope included in field and off-site support, reviewing the proposed project and assisting to develop exploration standards, coal analysis specification and a QAQC system. Palaris provided training support to the local team to implement the outcomes.  

Following exploration Palaris undertook data validation and geological modelling to support a maiden JORC Resource. This was followed by two resource updates as further sections of the deposit were drilled out.  

The resources established were used for Palaris to complete a Scoping Study for an underground operation feeding a mine mouth power station. Two design options were assessed for 450 MW and 900 MW power station cases. Financial modelling was completed to assess the highest return option to carry forward for further study.

Approach

As the project progressed through exploration, resource definition and finally into study phase, Palaris drew from its highly experienced coal team to provide specialists from a range of disciplines as required.  

The Palaris mining team selected a longwall top coal caving method for the +500 million tonne resource, providing the optional solution for the geology, geotechnical conditions, resource recovery and scale of operation. Palaris’ extensive project database built from operating as well as developing mines was used to underpin the operating and capital cost estimates. Sensitivities for development options were completed based by a ground up cost and financial modelling for the project. 

Outcome

In all Palaris worked with the Client on the asset for over 4 years, both remotely and in-country. Palaris has completed further studies for the Client on other Turkish coal assets.