Troilus Gold has awarded a contract for basic and detailed engineering work to BBA for the Troilus gold-copper project in north-central Quebec, Canada.
The awarding of the contract marks a key step towards construction of the Canadian gold project.
Under the terms of the contract, BBA will lead infrastructure development, process plant design, and procurement preparations.
The Canadian engineering consultancy had previously contributed to major gold operations, including the Canadian Malartic and Detour Lake mines.
As part of the contract, BBA will also design on-site infrastructure such as mine service buildings, administrative offices, and access roads. It will develop an optimised process plant, covering crushing, grinding, flotation, and gold recovery circuits.
Additionally, BBA will coordinate with contractors on power supply, tailings management, and water systems. Engineering work is scheduled to commence in early February 2025.
Troilus Gold CEO Justin Reid said: “Partnering with an experienced and trusted expert like BBA underscores our commitment to unlocking the immense value of the Troilus mine.
“BBA’s proven track record as a leader in designing and delivering some of Canada’s most successful gold mines instills confidence in their ability to drive innovation and operational excellence for the Troilus Project.”
Located approximately 120km north of Chibougamau, the Troilus project comprises four main mineralised zones.
A feasibility study released in May 2024 estimated an initial capital expenditure (capex) of $1.07bn for the project.
The Troilus gold-copper project is expected to operate as a conventional open-pit mine with a 22-year lifespan and potential for underground expansion.
The mine is projected to produce an average of 244,600 ounces of gold per year over its lifespan, along with 17.3 million pounds of copper and 446,700 ounces of silver annually.
Furthermore, the feasibility study indicates that the Troilus project has an after-tax net present value (NPV) of $884m and a post-tax internal rate of return (IRR) of 14%.
