Athena Joins Forces to Pioneer Green Iron Production in WA’s Mid-West
Athena Resources has partnered with Warradarge Energy and Fenix Resources to launch the Mid West Green Iron Project, aiming to produce sustainable green iron using ultra-high-grade magnetite and renewable hydrogen in Western Australia.
- Memorandum of Understanding signed between Athena, Warradarge Energy, and Fenix
- Creation of Mid West Green Iron Pty Ltd as equal-share project vehicle
- Focus on producing green iron using Byro Magnetite Project’s high-grade concentrate and Warradarge’s green hydrogen
- Project development planned in three stages – validation, demonstration, and commercial production
- Environmental goal to reduce steelmaking carbon emissions by up to 90%
A Strategic Alliance for Green Steel
Athena Resources Limited (ASX – AHN) has taken a significant step towards sustainable steel production by entering into a Memorandum of Understanding with Warradarge Energy and Fenix Resources. Together, these three entities will develop the Mid West Green Iron Project in Western Australia’s resource-rich mid-west region. This collaboration aims to leverage Athena’s ultra-high-grade magnetite from its Byro Magnetite Project alongside Warradarge’s green hydrogen production and Fenix’s logistics capabilities to pioneer a new era of green iron manufacturing.
The Promise of Green Iron
Green iron refers to iron produced through processes that replace traditional carbon-intensive methods with renewable energy sources, notably hydrogen derived from wind and solar power. This approach can reduce carbon emissions by as much as 90% compared to conventional steelmaking, a critical advancement given steel production’s substantial contribution to global greenhouse gases. The Mid West region is uniquely positioned to become a global leader in this field, combining abundant renewable energy resources with high-grade magnetite deposits.
Project Structure and Phased Development
The three partners have established a new company, Mid West Green Iron Pty Ltd, with equal ownership to manage the project’s development. The initiative will unfold in three stages – validation, demonstration, and commercial production. Initially, Athena will supply magnetite concentrate samples to test and validate green iron technologies. Following successful validation, a modular demonstration plant will be constructed to showcase the process at scale. Ultimately, the project aims to establish a full-scale commercial production facility, potentially expanding the partnership to include additional stakeholders.
Synergies and Regional Advantages
Athena’s Byro Magnetite Project is notable for its ability to produce a 70% iron concentrate, ideal for green iron feedstock. Warradarge Energy’s green hydrogen project, supported by over 1.5 GW of wind and solar capacity, will supply the essential reducing agent. Meanwhile, Fenix Resources brings critical logistics and port infrastructure through its Newhaul operations, facilitating efficient transport and export. This integrated approach aims to create a sustainable and economically viable green iron supply chain within the mid-west region.
Looking Ahead
While the project is still in its early stages, with technical validation targeted for completion by the end of 2026, the collaboration signals a growing commitment within the Australian mining sector to decarbonize steel production. Athena’s Managing Director, Peter Jones, emphasised the strategic fit of the partnership, highlighting the potential to open new high-value markets for Byro’s magnetite beyond traditional exports. The initiative also aligns with broader global trends towards sustainable industrial processes and renewable energy integration.
Bottom Line?
As the Mid West Green Iron Project advances, it could redefine Australia’s role in the global green steel transition.
Questions in the middle?
- What are the specific technological challenges anticipated in scaling green iron production?
- How will funding and government policy support influence the project’s timeline and scope?
- Could additional partners or investors join to expand the project’s commercial potential?
