Falco Resources is making remarkable strides towards advancing its Horne 5 Project development. The Horne 5 project, located in Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec, is a resurrection of the historic Horne mining complex, sitting directly beneath the city. Its development promises to bring a wealth of benefits to the community, the mining industry, and potentially the Canadian economy.
The mining company announced on April 8th, 2021, the completion of a key step in the project, which involves the consulting services agreement with ABB Inc. (ABB), a leader in digital industries providing innovative technology. The objective is to identify the electrification-driven costs in Horne 5’s feasibility study, thereby contributing to Falco’s vision of a low carbon footprint for the mine.
As an integral part of the project, ABB’s role in the consulting services agreement would be to conduct a comprehensive review of electrical power requirements, supply alternatives, and possible network integrations. This is in line with their experience and expertise, which expands from collaborating with global OEMs to working with industrial process industries.
Moreover, Falco’s corporate objective of advancing Horne 5 to construction is heightened by the continuous feasibility study aimed to fine-tune the project’s economic parameters. Notably, the focus is on the investigation around the electrification of all mobile mining equipment, low-carbon and renewable power sourcing, efficiency of current gold recovery processes, and potential for copper concentrate acid-leaching.
The electrification of all mobile mining equipment – a considerable shift from conventional diesel-powered machinery – will result in a low carbon footprint and a reduction in operational costs. It is a pioneering move in the mining industry, reflecting Falco’s commitment to sustainable practices and operations.
In seeking renewable power sourcing, Falco Resources is exploring sustainable options to not only reduce the project’s environmental impact but also to capitalize on the increasingly affordable renewable energy sources. Additionally, Falco is striving to improve the current methods of gold recovery, which remain a challenge in the mining industry context.
Lastly, the potential for copper concentrate acid-leaching could be an opportunity to expand the mine’s product base and potential revenue streams, therefore creating more value and jobs in the area.
Consultation activities with various stakeholders have also been a part of the project’s development process. These include engagements with local communities, governments, and other stakeholders, ensuring the smooth implementation and acceptance of the project. Falco is extremely grateful for the constant technical and financial contribution from Glencore Canada Corporation, which allowed them to explore ways to mitigate environmental risks associated with the Horne 5 project.
Overall, Falco’s advancements in Horne 5 embody a perfect blend of innovative application of technology, sustainable practices, and extensive stakeholder collaboration towards mine development. The alignment of these elements sets the project as a model for future developments in the mining industry and makes a bold statement in the sector’s direction towards sustainability and responsible mining.