A newly constructed gas pipeline connecting to Mineral Resources’ Onslow Iron project’s power station is expected to be fully operational by the end of October, reducing the site’s dependency on diesel fuel.
MinRes successfully developed the Ken’s Bore gas pipeline – extending 16km underground from the Goldfields gas pipeline to the gas fire power station at Ken’s Bore mine site, located approximately 200km southwest of Onslow.
The pipeline was constructed from March to August following internal collaboration between the company’s energy, engineering, and construction divisions.
MinRes’ energy and construction teams, together with specialised subcontractors, harnessed in-house expertise to help mitigate risks associated with scope creep, control costs, and maintain flexibility over resource allocation – especially during critical project stages.
The pipeline has been futureproofed, with piping upsized to 55TJ-per-day capacity to cater for the mine’s anticipated future electrification, which requires gas and renewables to displace diesel engines.
MinRes’ Chief Executive Energy, Darren Hardy, said the construction of the Ken’s Bore Gas Pipeline highlighted MinRes’ unique internal expertise and capability.
“By utilising in-house knowledge and expertise from our energy and construction teams, we’ve delivered a project that will drive the electrification of Ken’s Bore.
“Our energy division continues to support our growth by pursuing access to low-cost, reliable and cleaner fuel to power our operations.”
Chief Executive Engineering and Construction, Darren Killeen, said teams worked through several challenges, including the need for specialised rock blasting in the trench and navigating several interfaces and projects running at the same time.
“The Ken’s Bore Gas Pipeline was completed safely and efficiently thanks to a collaborative effort from two of our key business pillars. The quality of work delivered was outstanding, showcasing the significant expertise within our business.”
A solar array at Ken’s Bore, which will supplement the mine’s power generation system, is planned to be operational by January 2025.
Featured image: Mineral Resources.
