en.Wedoany.com Reported - Australian lithium miner Pilbara Minerals (ASX:PLS) has announced an early capital expenditure of A$175 million to advance the large-scale expansion of its Pilgangoora project in Western Australia, ensuring the project can be rapidly initiated when market conditions are favorable.

The proposed P2000 project aims to increase spodumene concentrate production capacity at Pilgangoora to approximately 2 million tonnes per year, potentially making it one of the world's largest lithium mining hubs. PLS Managing Director and CEO Dale Henderson stated that this pre-final investment decision capital expenditure preserves optionality and maintains momentum on critical paths. By advancing long-lead procurement, engineering design, and early works, the company is positioning itself to meet future lithium demand while retaining the flexibility to time the final investment decision.

The A$175 million investment will be allocated to engineering design, long-lead equipment procurement, early site works, and upgrades to Wodgina Road East, enabling key project elements to proceed ahead of the final investment decision. This move reflects growing confidence in the lithium outlook and marks the arrival of the next phase of growth at Pilgangoora. It follows PLS's recent expansion downstream in the lithium value chain to position for long-term growth beyond concentrate production.

The P2000 feasibility study remains on track for completion in the December quarter of 2026, with any final investment decision contingent on study results, financing capacity, and market conditions. If approved, the expansion project is expected to achieve first ore production by mid-2029.

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