Firebird Metals’ subsidiary Hunan Firebird Battery Technologies has achieved a major milestone by securing a safety permit for stage one of its battery-grade manganese sulphate plant in China. The plant will utilize third-party manganese ore to produce high-purity manganese sulphate, advancing towards construction and operation.
In China, a total of eight major permits are required for the construction and operation of such a facility, encompassing various aspects such as environmental compliance, energy, and workplace health and safety. The recent acquisition of the safety permit marks a significant step forward for Firebird Metals, with expectations that the remaining two permits will be granted before the end of the financial year.
Following the final investment decision (FID) expected in the second half of 2024, the company is set to commence construction, which is projected to last between 12 and 15 months. The plant aims to begin operations by late 2025, subject to the successful completion of all necessary permits and the FID.
Firebird managing director Peter Allen expressed optimism about the progress, stating, “We are moving at a rapid pace on the ground in China and that is due to the hard work of our leading manganese team and the strong level of in-country support we have and continue to receive.” The company anticipates making significant strides towards operationalizing the plant within the projected timeline.
