Carlyle(US:CG) Globenewswire·2026-01-19 22:00Core Insights - Centerra Gold Inc. has announced an updated mineral resource and a Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) for its Kemess project, indicating strong economic potential with an after-tax NPV5% of $1.1 billion and an IRR of 16% based on long-term metal prices of $3,000 per ounce of gold and $4.50 per pound of copper [3][4][36]. Mineral Resource and Economic Highlights - The updated mineral resource includes 3.3 million ounces of gold and 1.1 billion pounds of copper in the indicated category, and 3.6 million ounces of gold and 1.2 billion pounds of copper in the inferred category [7][23]. - The PEA outlines a 15-year mine life with average annual production of 171,000 ounces of gold and 61 million pounds of copper, at an all-in sustaining cost (AISC) of $971 per ounce [4][10][36]. - At spot prices of $4,500 per ounce of gold and $6.00 per pound of copper, the after-tax NPV5% increases to $2.8 billion, with an IRR of 29% [7][36]. Project Execution Strategy - The project will utilize an integrated mining strategy, starting with open pit operations followed by underground mining approximately two years later, optimizing the use of existing infrastructure [4][10][36]. - Initial non-sustaining capital expenditures are estimated at $771 million, with an additional $277 million planned for expansionary capital to support underground operations [17][18]. Exploration Potential - Significant exploration upside exists, with 28 kilometers of drilling completed in 2025, confirming mineralization continuity and identifying further resource growth opportunities [27][28]. - Future exploration will focus on infill drilling at the Kemess Main zone and resource extension at the Kemess Offset zone, with potential targets identified along the eastern extensions [28][29]. Community and Economic Impact - The Kemess project is expected to create over 700 jobs and generate substantial economic benefits for local communities and First Nations, reinforcing its role as a significant economic driver in British Columbia [34][32].