PTBA to increase E. Kalimantan coal mine reserves

IDX-listed state coal mining firm PT.Tambang Batubara Bukit Asam (PTBA) said it would conduct exploration program at its East Kalimantan coal mining concession to increase reserves.

Corporate Secretary Eko Budhiwijayanto told Petromindo.Com on Monday that the company hoped to significantly increase mineable reserves from 24 million tonnes currently.

PTBA acquired 51 percent shares of East Kalimantan coal miner PT.International Prima Coal (IPC) in 2008.

Eko said IPC is on schedule to start production this year with first year output of 500,000 tonnes, ramping up to 1MTPA in the second year. ?Currently PTBA is constructing production facilities,? he said.

Eko said the mine will produce coal with CV of 4,800-6,000 Kcal/kg/ADB.

The mine is located 5 km from Sanga-Sanga river, which could service barges of up to 300 feet.(Bernard)