Construction of the Eva copper operation is tracking on schedule, and the project passed an approvals milestone last week, according to Harmony Gold Mining Company chief executive officer Beyers Nel.

Mr Nel said the copper project’s environmental authority major amendment approval was received on May 15.

The Eva project, about 75km north-west of Cloncurry, initially secured an environmental authority from the Queensland Government in July 2012 and has since seen several amendments.

The latest amendments allow it to increase total ore extraction from about 170 million tonnes to 265 million tonnes over the project’s 15-year lifespan.

Maximum annual processing capacity rises from 12.6 million tonnes to 20 million tonnes per annum.

In Harmony’s latest operational update, Mr Nel said mine construction was progressing safely, tracking on schedule and within the approved capital estimate.

“This performance reflects Harmony’s focused execution since the final investment decision in November 2025,” he said.

“All major construction contracts have now been awarded, and the project has achieved several key milestones.”

Along with the environmental authority amendment approval, he noted that process plant construction and non‑process infrastructure works commenced last month.

“Aggreko has been appointed as the independent power provider and we are working closely with the Queensland Government on longer‑term power supply options, including the CopperString grid connection,” he said

“The Queensland Government’s prescribed project declaration for Eva Copper has been officially extended to March 2028, maintaining whole‑of‑government support and coordination to streamline approvals through the major construction phase.

“This status has been further strengthened by the establishment of the Cross‑Agency Assessment Team by the Queensland Government on 2 April 2026 to accelerate approvals for key resource projects, including the Eva copper mine project.”

Related: ABB technology helps drive Eva copper development

Mr Nel said Harmony was working with 83 local suppliers across the region.

“In line with Harmony’s commitment to a “local first” approach, we are proactively engaging with Traditional Owners, the Kalkadoon People and host communities on employment, housing and broader socio‑economic development outcomes for the region,” he said.

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