Russia has officially launched the first stage of ore processing at the Chernogorsk Mining and Processing Complex in Norilsk, marking the beginning of exploitation of one of the largest platinum group metal deposits in the world. The mine is expected to produce up to 55 tonnes of platinum and palladium annually, strengthening Moscow’s position in the global critical minerals market.
The project is being carried out by Russian Platinum in cooperation with Norilsk Nickel. According to the company, the first ore has already entered processing. The rapid development of the deposit was made possible by this partnership, which combines expertise and infrastructure in the region.
The initial phase includes the preparation and commissioning of the mine, a primary crushing plant, the main processing building, and a combined heat and power plant. Construction progress on these facilities exceeds 80 percent. Full commissioning of the plant is scheduled for the end of 2026.
Strategic project in the Arctic
The Chernogorsk deposit has been under development since 2021. It is one of the largest known sources of platinum group metals. The project is part of Russia’s Strategy for the Development of the Arctic Zone and the National Security Strategy of the Russian Federation until 2035, highlighting its geopolitical importance.
– The commissioning of the Chernogorsk complex is a key step in securing Russia’s long-term supply of platinum and palladium – said a representative of Russian Platinum. – These metals are essential for the global automotive, electronics and green energy industries, and Russia intends to remain a dominant player.
Massive resource base
The deposit’s mineral resources are estimated at approximately 143 million tonnes of ore, containing 359 tonnes of palladium and 133 tonnes of platinum. The final products will be copper and nickel concentrates with high platinum and palladium content.
The projected production capacity of the Chernogorsk Mining and Processing Plant in the first stage is between 7 and 9 million tonnes of ore per year. This volume will make the complex one of the most significant new sources of platinum group metals globally.
The project is expected to create thousands of jobs in the Norilsk region and boost the local economy. However, environmental concerns have been raised by Russian and international groups regarding the expansion of mining activities in the sensitive Arctic ecosystem.
Źródło: wnp.pl, Fot. Shutterstock
