Sigma Lithium Resources Corporation (CVE:SGMA) (OTCQB:SGMLF) has commenced significant earthworks activities at its Grota do Cirilo hard rock lithium project in Brazil.
The groundbreaking at the future plant and mine site, included the removal of topsoil, as well as clearing and grubbing.
Sigma expects to reach initial production in the 3Q 2022 with a target of 220,000 tons of high purity lithium concentrate per year.
READ: Sigma Lithium Resources' PEA shows Phase 2 expansion at Brazil project could double its value to US$844 million
The advancement at Grota do Cirilo follows the completion of the geotechnical assessment conducted as part of the civil engineering evaluation of impact on the foundation construction and design of a phase I production plant.
The event was attended by the Governor of the State of Minas Gerais and his senior leadership team including, the Secretary of State for Economic Development, his Deputy Secretary and The President of INDI (Secretary of Strategic Development Projects for Minas Gerais State).
According to Sigma Lithium, the discussions were centered around the broader development of the region of Vale do Jequitinhonha and the pivotal role of the lithium value chain. The explorer’s investment in the area is estimated to generate 400 direct jobs during phase I.
The development of Grota do Cirilo is anticipated to attract more resource companies to the region, and could result in 6,000 indirect jobs for the Minas Gerais.
“Our objective is to be a friend to the investor, generating income and jobs... We have so much more to do for Minas Gerais. What we are building is just the first step,” Governor Zema is quoted as saying in the Sigma Lithium release.
Phase I of the project is designed to allow for the expansion and incorporation of a future second production line.
“This is an operation that is totally in harmony with our best and most modern practices of mineral extraction,” added Fernando Passalio, Secretary of State for Economic Development.
Sao Paulo-based Promon Engenharia has been appointed to complete the design and construction of phase I. Promon joins Primero Group of Australia as Sigma’s international engineering team for construction at Grota do Cirilo.
Lastly, as a result of recent activities Sigma has upgraded its current environmental license to the implementation stage.
Contact the writer at georgia@proactiveinvestors.com
Follow her on Twitter @MissInformd