Graphite processing plant approved

The Metro Outer Joint Development Assessment Panel has approved the first stage of EcoGraf's $98 million graphite processing plant in East Rockingham.

EcoGraf proposed to build a 4,351 square metre battery anode facility comprising two buildings for milling and purification of uncoated spherical graphite products on the corner of Zirconia Drive and Alumina Road.

The application was lodged to the Metro Outer JDAP in February and was approved by panel members at its meeting this morning.

According to EcoGraf's application, with designs by Hunt Architects, the proposed development was only the first stage of the battery anode facility.

"The proposed development includes all the required industrial facilities to commence operation from the proposed site in the East Rockingham Industrial Park," it said.

"The second stage of the development will be subject to its own development application and thus this proposal is seeking approval for stage one only.

"There is strong demand by anode manufacturers outside China for an alternative supply that is environmentally friendly.

"The graphite produced at this plant will be exported to customers in Asia, Europe and America."

A value of $50 million is attached to this stage of the development, according to the responsible authority report.

EcoGraf received a loan of up to $54 million for the graphite processing plant from the federal government's Export Finance Australia initiative in February.

The 37,711sqm lot is owned by Development WA and within the East Rockingham Industrial Park.

The proposed facility will operate 24-7 with an expected output of 20,000 tonnes of purified spherical graphite per year.