Foran Mining’s McIlvenna Bay project in Saskatchewan has moved closer to production after the company reached two major milestones: energising its dedicated transmission line and advancing mill commissioning as overall construction reached 91 per cent completion.
The successful energisation of the 85-kilometre, 110kV transmission line provides permanent renewable grid power to the site, supporting the commissioning of the processing plant, underground operations and site infrastructure. The line was completed ahead of schedule and within budget, connecting the mine to Saskatchewan’s grid near the Island Falls hydroelectric generating station.
Foran executive chairman and chief executive officer Dan Myerson said the power connection represented a significant de-risking milestone for the project.
“Energizing the McIlvenna Bay transmission line ahead of schedule and on budget is another major step forward as we continue growing what we believe will become one of Canada’s most important new copper mining districts,” Myerson said.
“At a time when global geopolitical instability and rising fuel prices are creating increasing uncertainties, having direct access to stable, renewable power is a strategic advantage.
“It reinforces our vision of building a modern, resilient mining operation that is both economically competitive and aligned with the global transition to electrification.
“This milestone not only strengthens the long-term foundation for McIlvenna Bay, but it also positions Foran to deliver the critical metals that the world needs to target a low carbon footprint for generations to come.”
The commissioning update, released three days later, confirmed that the project remains on track for commercial production in mid-2026.
Cold commissioning activities continued across key plant infrastructure during February, including the first idle run of the ball mill, mechanical commissioning of the SAG and ball mills, and continued testing across the copper flotation circuit. Pre-commissioning also commenced on the thickener.
For the bulk handling and processing systems, Foran reported the completion of overland conveyors and belts, thickener tank installations, pump house works and continued progress in paste plant mechanical, piping and electrical installations.
Ore stockpiling also continued ahead of plant start-up, with approximately 35,000 tonnes added during February to lift the surface stockpile to 271,000 tonnes, effectively meeting the company’s previously flagged target of 272,000 tonnes before first ore feed.
Underground development advanced by approximately 505 metres during the month, including 70 metres in the priority decline heading, while drilled and blasted underground inventory stood at around 220,000 tonnes.
Myerson said the project’s latest milestones reinforced confidence in the production schedule.
“These achievements are a direct result of our greatest competitive advantage: our people,” he said.
“Their relentless drive, commitment to safety, and unified focus have de-risked our path toward bringing Canada’s next premier copper mine into production.
“We are building a long-term legacy that will provide the critical minerals required for the global energy transition, and we look forward to sharing further updates as we transition into hot commissioning and scale toward commercial production by mid-2026.”