Worsley Alumina might need to import coal as Griffin fails to provide

Worsley Alumina plant looking to import coal via Bunburry Port as their current coal provider, Griffin Coal grows increasingly more unreliable.

Griffin Coal has been suffering for some time and Cockburn Cement is already a victim of the failing coal provider and has resorted to importing their fossil fuels.

BHP’s Worsley site would most likely have to import 40,000 tons of coal to keep operations running. They even want to stockpile some of it in the South West town so it is available as and when needed. Where the coal will come from is not disclosed just yet although BHP’s coal fields in Queensland or NSW seem like the more probable candidates.

Michael Rix did not deny that coal imports are being considered but emphasized that they are always looking for alternate fuel source.

"While (Griffin owner) Lanco's Collie coal supply remains uncertain, Worsley is investigating the viability of other fuel sources," Mr Rix said. "We are talking to a range of community stakeholders about our options but no decisions have been made."

Worsley has not received any tonnage from Griffin for the month of December and January and less than contracted amount in February. There have also been reports that Worsley has been buying coal from Griffin’s rival Premier Coal.