The Tasmanian state government has re-purposed a grant to support infrastructure upgrades on King Island, which was originally awarded to Hydro Tasmania, to Group 6 Metals (ASX:G6M).
G6M will now receive a $1.64 million grant to assist with the costs of establishing the energy infrastructure required to recommence mining operations at the Dolphin Mine at Grassy, King Island.
Tasmania’s Minister for Energy and Renewables Guy Barnett said: “As part of establishing this energy solution, the company has committed to developing renewable energy solutions to support the Dolphin Mine’s future operations.
“The company has completed a concept study for the renewable energy project that is scheduled to be complete by early 2025.
“When implemented this new energy solution will provide over $8 million in further investment into the mine, supporting the local community and economy on King Island.
“I applaud the decision of Group 6 Metals to commit to plans that will see a high use of renewable energy in line with the Tasmanian Government’s renewable energy ambitions.”
Minister for Resources Felix Ellis congratulated Group 6 Metals on the work completed to date at the Dolphin Mine and on their commitment to pursuing more environmentally friendly energy options to support the Dolphin Mine.
Ellis said: “The Dolphin tungsten project is already seeing significant success since being revived with the support of a $10 million Tasmanian Government commercial loan to the company.
“The construction of the processing plant on King Island is nearly complete and is on track to be commissioned in April 2023 producing critical minerals for defence manufacturing and supporting some 75 full time local jobs.”
Barnett and Ellis said that the project would further stimulate the King Island economy and would assist with further decreasing the reliance on diesel on the island.