Release: BHP Billiton reviews Maruwai Coal Project in Indonesia

As part of an ongoing review of its Maruwai Coal Project (MCP), BHP Billiton has announced its intention not to proceed with the Haju trial mine project.

Maruwai Coal Project comprises seven Coal Contracts of Work (CCOWs). Of these, BHP Billiton was developing the Haju mine and conducting the Lampunut feasibility study to investigate the development of an open cut coal mine.

Work on the Lampunut feasibility study will also cease, other activities related to the CCOWs will be reviewed, and the workforce reduced accordingly.

The Haju mine was initially constructed to guide further development of the 100 per cent BHP Billiton owned large, metallurgical coal deposit in Central Kalimantan.

Construction of Haju mine, stage one of the Maruwai Coal Project development, commenced last June.

At this time, BHP Billiton has assessed the progress of the Haju mine and determined it is not a sufficient fit for the company to continue development.

Further evaluation of the company?s remaining interests is underway to determine the best future commercial options. (end of release)