Mitsubishi Commences Clermont Mine Operation in Australia

Mitsubishi Corporation announced on Tuesday Clermont Mine, Australian largest coal mine located in Queensland, has commenced its operations. The mine was started developing as an alternate mine which closed in 2007. The first coal shipment for export is scheduled in early May. The mine will increase the operation rate step by step and enter full production of 122.2 million tonnes per year in 2013. Mitsubishi will expand shipping capacity of fuel coal for Japanese electric power plants through development of new mines.

Clermont mine was developed after the close of Blair Athol mine in Queensland. Clermont mine started shipping of fuel coal to a port in Blair Athol. The mine transports fuel coal by 278-kilometer railway to Dalrymple Bay. The mine’s reserve is estimated at 189 million tonnes within five coal seams up to 100 meters thick. The mine will continue operation for 17 years.

Mitsubishi Development, Mitsubishi Corporation’s subsidiary, has the interest in Clermont mine at 31.4%. Rio Tinto holds 50.1% shares. J Power Australia, Electric Power Development’s group of Japanese electric power company, holds 15% and JCD Australia, a coal developing group, holds 3.5%.