Alkane signs Outotec for Dubbo project

Alkane Resources has hired Finnish technology services supplier Outotec to provide early contractor involvement work at its Dubbo zirconia project in New South Wales.

Alkane has brought in Outotec to find further value in the design of the project, following completion of an extensive front end engineering and design contract by international engineering group Hatch in August.

“The intention of the early contractor involvement process is to identify further value opportunities for project execution, both in application of technology and cost reductions,” Alkane said in a statement.

“After the initial phase of the ECI, Outotec will execute the process plant segment of the scope for Alkane on an engineering, procurement and construction basis.”

Alkane also said financing and offtake discussions over the project were advancing.

The Dubbo zirconia project, located in the central west region of NSW, is considered to be a world-class zirconia deposit, with Alkane aiming to be a significant producer of zirconium products and heavy rare earths.

The NSW Planning Assessment Commission has granted development approval for the project, and it has been assessed and received approval for development by the Department of Environment.

Alkane shares were 2 per cent lower to 23.5 cents each at 11am.