Alligator Energy (ASX: AGE) has achieved practical completion of construction at its Samphire uranium project pilot plant, clearing the way for final commissioning and the commencement of field recovery trials in early 2026.
The milestone confirms the conclusion of all construction works and the successful completion of both Stage 1 construction verification and Stage 2 energisation commissioning.
Construction began on 7 October 2025 and was completed safely, on schedule and under budget, with formal control of the site now transferred back to Alligator.
The achievement marks a key step in advancing Samphire toward operational testing and future development decision-making.
Pilot Plant Completed
Despite the logistical and operational complexity associated with building a new facility, Alligator delivered the pilot plant in line with the original construction program,
completing the project under budget through disciplined scope control, effective procurement, and close contractor oversight.
Safety outcomes across the construction phase were also positive, with only one minor first-aid incident recorded over the full build period.
With practical completion confirmed, care and control of the site has formally reverted to Alligator, enabling final pre-operation activities to begin, with Stage 3 dry commissioning and Stage 4 wet commissioning scheduled to commence in early January 2026.
These activities will ensure all systems are fully operational ahead of trial operations and remain consistent with the original project schedule.
In parallel, Alligator expects 2026 to include progress on mining lease permitting and delivery of an updated Mineral Resource Estimate in the first half of the year.
Final Commissioning Imminent
Chief executive officer Andrea Marsland-Smith said the completion milestone demonstrated Alligator’s ability to execute complex project stages safely and efficiently.
“The team has delivered an incredibly high quality facility within the planned schedule and budget, which positions us strongly as we move into final commissioning and trial operations,” Ms Marsland-Smith said.
Alligator is scheduled to begin field recovery operations in February, and expects initial results in the first quarter of calendar year 2026, providing a near-term project catalyst.
The trial is intended to demonstrate and validate in-situ recovery operating performance at Samphire, as well as confirm operating parameters and recovery characteristics that will inform future development decisions for the project.
Outcomes from the trial will feed directly into a Bankable Feasibility Study the company has targeted for completion in early 2027.
