MOU Signed to Pioneer Graphite Beneficiation in Uganda5 Sep 2024 07:11
Blencowe Resources (LSE: BRES.L) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding ("MOU") with Singaporean graphite sales and marketing specialist Triessence Limited ("Triessence") and a leading Asian SPG and Anode material producer ("SPG Partner"). This partnership aims to establish Joint Venture (JV) for a graphite beneficiation facility in Uganda producing 99.95% purified graphite for lithium-ion batteries. This venture will set Blencowe apart from competitors focused solely on producing graphite concentrate and provides a life-of-mine offtake partner near the Orom-Cross Project, offering significant additional commercial advantages.
With this JV, Blencowe's has strategically aligned with two highly experienced Asian graphite specialists to ensure successful delivery.
Highlights:
· JV Formation: Blencowe and Triessence will each hold a 50% stake in in the SPG facility, with the SPG Partner providing operational expertise. Blencowe retains 100% ownership of Orom-Cross.
· Value Addition: Upgrading 96% graphite concentrate to high-value battery ready 99.95% uncoated SPG significantly enhances commercial returns compared to selling concentrate.
· Risk Mitigation: Partnering with graphite industry experts mitigates operational risk.
· Capital Investment: Triessence will fund 50% of capital costs for the SPG facility.
· SPG Offtake Secured: Triessence will purchase all end product, ensuring consistent revenue and premium pricing for some of the first 99.95% SPG produced ex-China.
· Non-China Focus: SPG product ultimately to be sold to OEMs outside China via Triessence, providing strong political, commercial and funding advantages.
· Next steps: Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) for the SPG facility will be integrated with Orom-Cross DFS for a comprehensive development strategy.
Executive Chairman Cameron Pearce commented:
"Blencowe has long recognised the substantial advantages downstream upgrading of graphite in-country can offer and securing experienced partners who have the expertise to help us deliver successful SPG production was essential. I am delighted to say that this MOU is another significant milestone in enhancing both the value and distinctiveness for our Company."
"Our JV team will now focus on the SPG facility feasibility study and integrating it with the Orom-Cross DFS, providing a comprehensive solution that adds considerable value. We anticipate minimal additional costs for this study as we are utilising our partners' existing vast experience for all costings and design work, and no further bulk sample testing or further resource drilling is needed."
Might we have experienced one last, desperate, Tree Shake, yesterday?
Looking good going forward!
GLA