Cyprium Metals Greenlights Nifty Copper Cathode Restart for Mid-2026
Cyprium Metals has secured board approval to restart copper cathode production at its Nifty Copper Complex, targeting first output by mid-2026. The plan leverages existing heap leach resources and refurbishes key processing infrastructure to generate near-term cash flow.
- Board approves cathode restart plan at Nifty Copper Complex
- Re-leaching of existing heap leach pads to recover copper
- Refurbishment of solvent extraction electrowinning plant for 6,000 tonnes annual production
- Early works and long lead items authorized to maintain schedule
- First cathode production expected by mid-2026
Board Approval Marks Transition to Production
Cyprium Metals Limited (ASX – CYM) has taken a decisive step forward by obtaining board approval to restart copper cathode production at its flagship Nifty Copper Complex in Western Australia. This move signals the company’s transition from developer to producer, aiming to deliver first cathode output by mid-2026.
Leveraging Existing Assets for Low-Risk Restart
The restart plan focuses on re-leaching copper from existing heap leach pads using surface leach methods, a strategy that utilises sunk capital and existing resources to minimise risk. The process involves refurbishing the solvent extraction electrowinning (SXEW) plant to support a minimum production capacity of 6,000 tonnes of copper cathode per annum.
Key early works include re-establishing heap leach infrastructure such as drainage systems and ponds, constructing a new acid terminal, and installing necessary pumps and irrigation equipment. These efforts are already materially advancing site readiness.
Strategic Importance and Growth Potential
Executive Chairman Matt Fifield highlighted the strategic significance of this restart, noting it will generate meaningful cash flow and enable accelerated growth from open pit and regional ore sources. The cathode restart is the first phase in a broader plan that includes reactivating the Nifty open pit to access both oxide and sulphide ores, with sulphide processing expected to require additional regulatory approvals.
Operational Readiness and Next Steps
The board has authorised expenditure on long lead items critical to maintaining the project schedule, including electrical, mechanical, and control system refurbishments at the SXEW plant. Site-wide support infrastructure, health and safety systems, and training programs are also being established to ensure operational readiness.
Looking ahead, Cyprium plans to update shareholders as the project progresses toward commissioning and production milestones, with the restart poised to reinvigorate copper production in a tier-one Australian jurisdiction.
Bottom Line?
Cyprium’s cathode restart sets the stage for a pivotal shift to production, with mid-2026 marking a key milestone in unlocking the Nifty Copper Complex’s potential.
Questions in the middle?
- What are the detailed capital expenditure figures and funding sources for the restart?
- How will regulatory approvals for sulphide ore processing impact the timeline and scale of operations?
- What are the projected cash flow and profitability metrics once cathode production commences?
