PT Vale Indonesia Tbk (INCO) has earmarked US$ 9 billion (IDR 138.3 trillion) for the development of three smelter projects.
These smelters will be located in Sulawesi, specifically in Sorowako, Bahodopi, and Pomalaa, with groundbreaking expected to take place in 2023.
Adriansyah Chaniago, Vice President Director of Vale Indonesia emphasized that the construction readiness aligns with the permits granted by the Indonesian government to Vale Indonesia.
Chaniago mentioned that the permit progress for the Bahodopi smelter is approximately 80%, and for Pomalaa, it’s around 50%. He noted that the progress of all three projects indicates a rapid early work phase.
Chaniago further explained that the increase in capacity for the HPAL smelter in Pomalaa would reach approximately 120,000 tons of nickel per year.
He stated that infrastructure preparations for the construction are also underway. In fact, one of the smelters has begun sample testing for its expansion.
Chaniago mentioned that Vale Indonesia is currently focusing on projects that prioritize Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards, collaborating with various other companies.
“Groundbreaking is already in preparation for infrastructure and other aspects. In Pomalaa, we have conducted sampling tests for mining, and the results are promising. We aim to be on time with all activities, and most importantly, everything is carried out with ESG standards, which we have already implemented,” he concluded.
