McArthur River Electrical Substation
Powering expansion of the world's largest high-grade uranium mine
Cameco Corporation
|
Canada
|
2013–2015
World's
largest high-grade uranium mine
18 million tpa
of uranium produced
2015 CIM Award
for project safety
New 138 kV
substation for mine power
Challenges
- Supply power for future infrastructure expansions at the McArthur River mine operation, the world's largest high-grade uranium mine.
- Ore grades within the deposit are one hundred times the world average.
- The operation can produce more than 18 million pounds of uranium each year by mining only 150 to 200 tonnes of ore per day.
Solutions
- Basic engineering was completed and full EPCM services were provided for the design and construction of a 32 MW, 138 kV electrical substation and standby power-generation facility.
- The electrical substation was constructed, with power distribution and backup generation.
- Diesel storage tanks and power distribution throughout the mine site were included.
- Site preparation was initiated in 2012 and full construction was completed.
Highlights
- The McArthur River operation is the world's largest high-grade uranium mine.
- Site is located in a remote area of northern Saskatchewan.
- With challenging logistics and winter conditions, the project was executed with excellent local procurement and local contractor engagement.
- Completed below budget.
- Received the 2015 CIM Award for Project Safety.
Project numbers
C$100 million-plus capital value18 million tpa of uranium
138 kV substation
Services & technologies provided