Pilbara Minerals (PLS) is gearing up to expand its Australian lithium operations, with Pilgangoora and Ngungaju positioned to deliver strong production growth as global demand strengthens.

The Pilgangoora operation maintained robust output, producing 208,000 tonnes of spodumene concentrate while sustaining lithium recoveries at 76 per cent, despite increasing contact ore feed to maximise sorter performance. Total material mined rose to 8.1 million tonnes, bolstering operational efficiency and securing supply through the wet season.

PLS is also advancing plans for its Ngungaju processing plant.

“Additional production capacity from the restart of the 200,000 tonnes per annum Ngungaju plant is being assessed, with early plant operational readiness works completed to position for a potential restart within four months,” the company said.

A board decision on the restart is expected in the March quarter. Looking further ahead, the P2000 Pilgangoora expansion feasibility study is progressing, with the potential to lift production capacity to around 2 million tonnes per year. Updates on scope and timing are expected in the March quarter of 2026.

Sales from Pilgangoora reached 232,000 tonnes during the December period, with average realised prices of $US1161 per tonne spodumene concentrate (SC5.2) and $US1336 per tonne (SC6 equivalent, CIF China). The company ended the period with $954 million in cash, supported by higher revenue and disciplined cost control.

With a reliable production base at Pilgangoora and near-term growth potential from Ngungaju and P2000, PLS is positioning itself to capture opportunities in the rising lithium market while maintaining financial flexibility and operational resilience.

Read more: PLS powers ahead

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