Whistler Gold-Copper PEA Delivers $2.04 B NPV, 33% IRR and 2.1-Year Payback
The initial PEA for the 100% owned Whistler Gold-Copper Project in Alaska estimates an after-tax NPV5% of $2.04 billion with a 33.0% IRR and 2.1-year payback at base-case metal prices. First three years average annual production is projected at 345,000 oz gold equivalent with AISC of $1,046/oz.
1. PEA Key Economic Metrics
The PEA estimates an after-tax net present value at a 5% discount rate of $2.04 billion and an internal rate of return of 33.0%, with an initial payback of 2.1 years based on gold at $3,200/oz, copper at $4.50/lb and silver at $37.50/oz.
2. Production and Mine Plan
Over a 14.6-year mine life, Whistler is projected to yield 3.6 Moz gold equivalent, including 2.6 Moz gold, 6.9 Moz silver and 592 Mlbs copper, with average annual production of 345,000 oz AuEq in the first three years and an overall strip ratio of 2.2:1.
3. Capital Costs and Development Potential
Initial capital expenditures are estimated at $1.28 billion for a 40,000 tpd open-pit, truck-and-shovel operation with conventional processing; further value upside is anticipated through additional exploration on district-scale targets and advancing permitting for the West Susitna Access Road.