PT Vale Indonesia Tbk (INCO) projects the completion of three nickel smelter projects based on high-pressure acid leaching (HPAL) technology in 2026 and 2027, located in Pomala, Morowali, and Sorowako. The projects involve large-scale investments. IGP Pomala is the fastest-built HPAL plant. At present, Vale Indonesia is awaiting the delivery of the autoclave and IPIP port. The mine is currently under construction, with HPAL construction having already commenced.
Investment in the HPAL project in Pomala is estimated at USD 4.6 billion. The Pomala project involves approximately 6,200 workers and prioritises work to support initial mining and the first shipment of nickel ore, including the construction of mine roads, stockpiles and sedimentation ponds. At present, IGP Morowali involves approximately 4,700 workers, with an investment value of USD 2 billion for the HPAL plant and mine. Investment in IGP Sorowako has reached USD 2.2 billion.
