IDX-listed integrated nickel producer PT Vale Indonesia Tbk (IDX: INCO) announced the start of the operational phase of its Indonesia Growth Project (IGP) in Morowali, Central Sulawesi. The milestone was marked by a first-cutting ceremony held on Thursday.
PT Vale President Director Febriany Eddy said the IGP Morowali project, developed in partnership with EPC firm PT Petrosea Tbk, is more than just an expansion—it is a strategic step that transforms the national nickel industry.
“This project is designed to produce high-grade nickel essential for electric vehicle (EV) batteries, strengthening Indonesia’s role as a global supply hub in the clean energy ecosystem,” she stated.
“The world needs clean nickel, Indonesia has it, and PT Vale is committed to providing it responsibly,” Febriany emphasized.
She also highlighted that the project has progressed ahead of schedule, thanks to strong synergy between internal teams and strategic partners.
“With this synergy, we’ve been able to start earlier than planned. It’s proof that Indonesia can lead—not just follow—in the global energy transition agenda,” she said.
PT Vale’s commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles is embedded throughout the project. World-class safety standards and environmental mitigation measures have been implemented from the outset of operations.
The project also aims to deliver broad benefits to local communities, including job creation, human capital development, and sustainable community initiatives.
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The operational phase of IGP Morowali demonstrates how a strategic project can align business interests, environmental sustainability, and social progress. Amid global demands for energy transition, PT Vale positions itself as a concrete solution—providing critical resources in a fair, green, and sustainable way.
The IGP Morowali project includes both a nickel mine and a high-pressure acid leach (HPAL) smelter. Febriany noted in March that the mine is targeted for completion by Q2 2025, with the HPAL smelter expected to be ready by mid-2026. Construction of the port and supporting facilities has already been completed.
The HPAL plant will have a production capacity of 73,000 tons of nickel annually, including 60,000 tons of mixed hydroxide precipitate (MHP). The total investment in the mine and HPAL facility is estimated at US$ 2 billion.
To support operations, the Morowali facility will be powered by a liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant with a capacity of up to 500 megawatts (MW). By integrating waste heat recovery systems and solar panels, the project aims to achieve net-zero emissions.
Editing by Reiner Simanjuntak
