capex and opex_benefits of isr and lance

Well we had PNN drop out of the race due to high costs.

Now we have BMN announcing this from there recent PFS results:


* Expected capital costs of US$555 million for flotation concentrate leaching.
* Expected operating costs for flotation concentrate leaching of US$38/lb U3O8 in the first five years, with an average life-of-mine cost of US$41/lb U3O8."

BMN PFS:
Capex US$555M
Opex US$41/lb (life of mine)


PEN estimated forecast PFS:
Capex US$40M (expected to be less)
Opex US$$28.3/lb (life of mine)

I also note in the latest presentation 21/10/09 from PEN the Opex has reduced from US$17/lb to US$15/lb.

I keep saying the benefits of low cost ISR over conventional mining will become the key success factor of Lance and subsequently PEN.

I continue to watch the progress of others with interest. PEN just looks better by the day.