Almar Water Solutions and Transelec receive the transfer of Centinela’s first water pipeline at an event in Santiago
- The signing and transfer include the acquisition and operation of a 144 km long water pipeline that transports 1,194 lps (110,678 m3/day), supplying seawater 60 km north to the mining site in Michilla, where the Centinela port is located.
- The ceremony celebrated the collaboration between Almar Water Solutions, Transelec, and Antofagasta Minerals, highlighting innovation and commitment to environmental sustainability.
Santiago, Chile | June 19, 2024. On Monday, June 17, a ceremony was held in Santiago, Chile, for the transfer of the first water transportation pipeline to the consortium formed by Almar Water Solutions and Transelec. The event took place at the corporate building of Antofagasta Minerals, located in Las Condes.
This significant infrastructure project for Minera Centinela includes the acquisition and operation of a 144 km long water pipeline that transports 1,194 lps (110,678 m3/day), supplying seawater 60 km north to the mining site in Michilla, where the Centinela port is located. Additionally, the overall project includes the construction and operation of a new 144 km long pipeline with a capacity of 650 lps (56,333 m3/day) parallel to the existing pipeline to provide seawater and facilitate the planned expansion of the mine through the second concentrator project, known as Nueva Centinela. This project will add 144,000 tons of copper, 3,500 tons of molybdenum, and 130,000 additional ounces of gold extraction per year when it becomes operational. This system will allow Minera Centinela to continue its mining activities without compromising local freshwater resources.
During his speech, Carlos Cosín, CEO of Almar Water Solutions, highlighted the importance of the project: “The project we celebrate today is a significant example of innovation and collaboration. The 144 km pipelines that will capture seawater for Minera Centinela are a perfect example of how we can overcome water challenges. Additionally, the BOOT model used in this project reaffirms itself as the most effective contracting method, distributing risks, incorporating companies with technological capacity and experience in construction and operation, and reflecting a long-term vision and commitment.”
The ceremony concluded with a group photo and the presentation of commemorative gifts to the participants, symbolizing the significant milestone this project represents for the future of sustainable mining in the region.
At Almar Water Solutions, we are committed to providing sustainable solutions that preserve these valuable resources for future generations, thus ensuring responsible and environmentally conscious development.
Following the Centinela contract, Almar Water Solutions consolidates its regional platform in Chile, consisting of Almar Water Services Latam for services and Aguas San Pedro for urban water cycle management. This project is the first for the Asset Management division in the region, highlighting Almar Water Solutions’ commitment and expansion in Latin America and consolidating the company’s business model.