Ellatzite-Med Meets 2010 with an Updated Environmental Program and a Modernized Energy Management System

In 2009 Ellatzite-Med AD invested 16.5 million Euro in projects related to company modernization, water management and energy efficiency.

One of the most important projects completed in 2009 was the construction of a new primary crushing unit KET-3. With the putting into operation of the new facility ore transportation is optimized, resulting in higher economic efficiency. The positive ecological effect of this project can be seen in the achievement of 30% reduction of СО2 emissions.

Ellatzite-Med has also developed an ambitious water management program which includes the construction of three treatment facilities for mine waste waters. The construction works will be carried out by the subsidiary Geostroy AD. Two of the facilities are at the final stage of construction. Ellatzite-Med has signed a contract with the Japanese company Mitsubishi Materials Techno Corporation (MMTEC). The company, which is a leader in Japan in the treatment of mine waste waters, will provide technical assistance for the design, construction and commissioning of the third water treatment facility. All mine waste waters will be treated using state-of-the-art technologies. This will put an end to the pollution of the rivers Elashka and Malak Iskar. The water treatment plant will continue operating even during the period of recultivation and closing of the mining complex.

Ellatzite-Med, one of the major power consumers in Bulgaria, also seeks to improve its energy efficiency. In 2009 the company updated entirely its energy management system. All power measurement and reporting devices were replaced, and optic connection to the mining sites was established. In addition, an operational center for the monitoring of energy and technological parameters was created.

Ellatzite-Med AD also invests in sustainable and energy-efficient technologies in the field of cogeneration and renewable energy sources.