BHP Billiton recorded a nine per cent increase in overall production and also achieved output records at 12 operations in the last 2013-14 financial year.
On release of the company’s Operational Review this morning, BHP Billiton Chief Executive Officer, Andrew Mackenzie, said “Western Australia Iron Ore and Queensland Coal annual production exceeded guidance, with both rising by more than 20 per cent as we delivered more tonnes from existing infrastructure and growth projects ahead of schedule. At Escondida, an increase in mill throughput and concentrator utilisation offset copper grade decline, while our Onshore US business delivered a 73 per cent increase in petroleum liquids production. ”
“Our focus on productivity has resulted in a significant improvement in operating performance at each of our major businesses this year, with a nine per cent increase in Group production and record output at 12 operations.
“We expect to maintain strong momentum and remain on track to generate Group production growth of 16 per cent over the two years to the end of the 2015 financial year. In Petroleum, we are investing in our highest-return acreage while a broader improvement in productivity is expected to underpin stronger iron ore, copper and metallurgical coal volumes.”
“We will remain focused on value over volume as we prioritise our brownfield development options and consider the next phase of portfolio simplification.”
A company statement went on to say, “Metallurgical coal production exceeded full-year guidance as Queensland Coal achieved record production and sales volumes. This included first production from Caval Ridge, the successful ramp-up of Daunia and record production at Peak Downs, Saraji, South Walker Creek and Poitrel. Metallurgical coal production is forecast to increase by four per cent in the 2015 financial year to 47 Mt as the ramp-up of Caval Ridge is completed.”
Click to read the full BHP Billiton Operational Review here
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