First Nickel Processing Plant with Energy Source from Natural Gas  

 
The smelter to be built in Sambalagi will use the Rotary Kiln Electric Furnace (RKEF) technology. Supported by a source of electricity from natural gas, it will be a reliable, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly factory.  

The natural gas power plant will be a major contributor to reducing carbon emissions from the overall operation of this project. Reducing carbon emissions has become part of PT Vale’s sustainability roadmap, with a target of reducing carbon emissions by up to 33% by 2030.  

A total investment cost of up to IDR37.5 trillion have been allocated, with production capacity of 73 thousand tons per year.  

"The presence of this Morowali project is a representation of our commitment to be a reliable and sustainable nickel producer for Indonesia with the lowest carbon footprint. We will bring the best mining practices carried out in the Sorowako Block to Morowali. In addition to supporting the government's downstream program, we also want to contribute to the community and our earth," said Febriany Eddy, CEO and President Director of PT Vale. 
 
“This groundbreaking reinforces our unwavering commitment to Indonesia and its people while pushing forward on an accelerated path with our multibillion-dollar growth pipeline,” said Deshnee Naidoo, President Commissioner of PT Vale and Executive Vice President of Vale’s Base Metals business. “Together with our esteemed partners, we are excited to bring to fruition a critical growth project that will deliver low-carbon nickel production safely and sustainably and bolster a domestic supply chain for energy transition materials and electric vehicles.”  
 

Commitment to the Morowali Community  

Together with partners, PT Vale will implement a sustainable Community Development and Empowerment Program (PPM), by reflecting on best practices conducted in the Sorowako Block. In the 2015-2022 period, PT Vale has disbursed IDR46 billion for various social programs in 17 villages, which are included in the empowerment area, both in Morowali.  

Support for the villages around the mine, among other things, includes the construction of infrastructure in the fields of education, health, and social facilities. In addition, PT Vale also aided programs for organic rice farming.  

The Morowali project will absorb up to 15,000 workers in the construction phase and around 5,000 workers in the operational phase. Therefore, maximizing the absorption of local workers and increasing their competence is PT Vale's commitment. 
 
At the end of 2022, PT Vale also provided support in the field of human resource development by training the local workforce by teaching electrical and welding skills. In addition, PT Vale also invites suppliers and local entrepreneurs to hold Local Entrepreneur Prequalification Technical Guidance.  

Central Sulawesi Governor Rusdy Mastura and Morowali Regent Taslim hope that the Morowali project will be able to bring a multiplier effect to the communities. The Regent also supports the realization of PT Vale’s commitment to operate with due regard to the environment.  

"I appreciate the implementation of PT Vale's groundbreaking, hopefully it can be completed quickly so that it will have a welfare impact on Central Sulawesi Province, especially in Morowali. Thank you PT Vale, let's work well together to increase regional income. I believe PT Vale has a commitment in operating to protect the environment," said Rusdy Mastura.