Blackstone (NYSE:BX) Minerals Ltd (ASX:BSX, OTCQX:BLSTF) has achieved a key milestone by completing essential studies and initiating early contractor engagement to deliver on the definitive feasibility study (DFS) for its Ta Khoa Refinery Project in northern Vietnam.
In recognising the significance of local expertise, the company has enlisted the support of Vietnamese contractors to expedite construction and permitting timelines to ensure the project is ‘Vietnam-ready’.
A recent site visit to Vietnam has set the groundwork for progress, with several prominent companies engaged to contribute to the DFS and refining processes.
Ta Khoa Refinery DFS partners.
Local engagement
Narime continues to assist globally-renowned Wood as the lead in-country engineering consultant for the refinery design and local pricing. Their contributions have exceeded expectations, bolstering engineering accuracy and reducing project risks.
To leverage Vietnamese pricing and ensure smooth procurement, Blackstone has commenced early engagement with Vietnamese fabricators and contractors.
The site visit included visits to some of the world's largest fabrication companies and facilities, each with a diverse client base ranging from thermal power plants, oil and gas, refining, cement and steel fabrication plants in Asia, Europe, the US and Australia.
Logistics study for both construction and operational phases has been entrusted to Scan Global Logistics, while Tedi Wecco has completed the river port design to facilitate year-round barging along the Da River.
Hong Ha is spearheading access road design for the Ta Khoa Refinery site and non-process infrastructure.
Ta Khoa logistic routes.
Meanwhile, power supply for the refinery has been finalised, with local power infrastructure experts Global Green Energy Consulting completing the design of the main power supply from the Vietnamese power grid.
Blackstone remains committed to becoming the greenest nickel project globally by exploring wind potential in Son La and seeking future power purchase agreements to leverage Vietnam's hydropower and green energy network.
CIE, a division of Vimluki, has been engaged to collect environmental baseline data and complete the environmental impact assessment report, while DRCC has been engaged to complete the social and economic baseline study.
Both studies are vital for obtaining project approvals and monitoring progress.
Leveraging local expertise
Blackstone Minerals managing director Scott Williamson said: “I’d like to acknowledge the efforts of our project and permitting teams to ensure the design of the Ta Khoa Project is ‘Vietnam ready’.
“This important body of work allows the company to significantly reduce the project execution risk.
“The teams’ research has identified a vast network of extremely experienced and competent consultants and contractors who are eager to contribute to the success of this nationally significant project for Vietnam."
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