As the global economy continues to transition towards sustainability, the demand for critical metals has surged. These metals are vital for the renewable energy industry, particularly for electric vehicles (EVs), solar power, and wind technologies. Orion Minerals Limited, an Australian-based diversified metals exploration and development company, is positioned to play a significant role in this shift, thanks to its forward-thinking projects in South Africa’s Northern Cape and the visionary leadership of its Managing Director and CEO, Errol Smart.
Orion Minerals’ flagship project, the Prieska Copper-Zinc Mine (PCZM), exemplifies the company’s strategic focus on providing the metals essential for the green energy revolution. The Prieska mine, once a major copper producer in South Africa, is undergoing a revival, with plans for modernisation and increased production capacity. The project is set to begin copper and zinc production by late 2025, with an annual output of around 22,000 tonnes of copper and 70,000 tonnes of zinc. These metals are in high demand, as they are fundamental to EV batteries, renewable energy systems, and electronic devices.
The company’s Okiep Copper Project (OCP) also promises substantial growth potential. Located in the same region, Okiep encompasses several historic mines, with recent drilling confirming high-grade copper deposits. Orion is finalising its feasibility studies for Okiep and anticipates making significant progress on the project within the next 12 months. This venture is an important addition to the company’s portfolio, helping to position Orion as a key player in the base metals sector as demand for copper and other critical materials continues to rise.
Beyond traditional copper and zinc projects, Orion is also innovating within the refining sector. The company is developing the Stratega Metals Vapour Refining Project, a game-changing initiative to establish South Africa’s first refinery dedicated to processing materials needed for battery production, including nickel, copper, cobalt, and platinum group elements (PGEs). As the world moves towards renewable energy and electric transportation, the need for high-quality battery materials will only grow. By pursuing this project, Orion is positioning itself to take advantage of the rapidly expanding battery market, providing critical resources for a decarbonised future.
Central to Orion’s success is the leadership of Errol Smart, whose extensive experience in exploration, mine development, and operations spans over 30 years. As a geologist registered for JORC purposes, Smart has a wealth of expertise in both precious and base metals. His previous roles in major mining companies, such as Anglogold, Cluff Mining, Metallon Gold, and LionGold Corporation, have equipped him with the technical knowledge and strategic vision necessary to guide Orion through the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Smart’s leadership goes beyond technical knowledge. He has a strong track record of leading businesses through complex regulatory and financial landscapes, particularly in Africa. As a current Director on the Board of the Minerals Council South Africa, Smart is well connected within the mining industry, and his influence extends beyond Orion, shaping the direction of the mining sector as a whole. His focus on sustainability, community engagement, and long-term shareholder value is evident in the company’s projects and its approach to responsible mining.
Orion is committed to fostering positive relationships with local communities, prioritising local employment and skills development. The company has worked hard to ensure that its projects bring tangible benefits to the regions in which it operates, from creating jobs to supporting local suppliers. In addition, Orion has implemented sustainable practices to mitigate the environmental impact of its operations. The company is investing in technologies such as ore-sorting, which reduces waste and enhances the efficiency of the mining process, ensuring that more of the resource is extracted with minimal environmental damage.
As the world focuses on reducing carbon emissions and advancing clean energy technologies, the demand for base metals is expected to grow exponentially. Orion Minerals is in a strong position to capitalise on this demand, with projects that are not only valuable for their economic potential but also crucial for the energy transition. The company’s focus on copper, zinc, and battery materials aligns perfectly with global trends, and its forward-thinking approach to refining technologies ensures that it remains at the cutting edge of the industry.
Looking ahead, Orion is actively seeking strategic partnerships to support its projects and facilitate growth. The company has been engaging with potential partners to secure financing and further the development of its key assets. As the demand for critical minerals continues to increase, collaboration with other mining entities, governments, and financial institutions will be essential in driving Orion’s future success.
Orion’s participation in industry events such as the Critical Minerals Africa Summit demonstrates its commitment to positioning Africa as a hub for investment in critical minerals. By building relationships with key stakeholders and staying ahead of emerging trends, the company is enhancing its standing within the global mining community and preparing for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Under Errol Smart’s leadership, Orion Minerals has become a prominent player in the mining sector, with a clear strategy focused on sustainability, innovation, and community engagement. The company’s ability to meet the growing demand for base metals, while maintaining high environmental and social standards, sets it apart in a competitive industry.
As the world increasingly embraces the transition to a low-carbon future, Orion Minerals stands ready to contribute to this transformation. With its strong project pipeline, innovative refining strategies, and commitment to responsible mining, the company is positioned for success in 2025 and beyond. Errol Smart’s experience and leadership ensure that Orion will remain a key player in the global mining landscape, helping to drive the electrification of economies and the sustainable growth of industries across the globe.