Peabody Energy announced last week that the longwall panel at its Centurion hard coking coal operation in Queensland’s Bowen Basin has commenced operation about two months ahead of its initial target date.
The miner said the advancement is significant for its portfolio, as it strengthens its metallurgical coal platform and improves its margins.
“With Centurion online the mine is well positioned to benefit multiple stakeholders, including employees, customers investors and the community for years to come,” said newly seated president and CEO Jim Grech.
Ramp-up is now in motion as Peabody targets 2026 production there of 3.5 million metric tons. It is aiming for 4.7Mt/y by 2028 from its mine plan of about 140 million tonnes.
Centurion, formerly known as North Goonyella, had been on idle since September 2018 following a mine fire. It extracts from the Goonyella Middle Seam and its tonnage goes to the Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal.