Industry & Science : What are Pre-feasibility and Feasibility Studies?

Resource investors that are new to the market might see quite a few unfamiliar terms in press releases. Pre-feasibility and feasibility studies are definitely two that are key to know.

Pre-feasibility and feasibility studies are inherently linked to each other — understanding their differences creates a clearer idea of what they mean and how they’re used. The key point to understand is that these studies represent milestones for mining and exploration companies.

On that note, let’s take a look at what pre-feasibility and feasibility studies are and how they fit into the life cycle of a mining project.

What is a pre-feasibility study?

Prefeasibility studies are an early stage analysis of a potential mining project. They are conducted by a small team and designed to give company stakeholders the basic information they need to green light a project or choose between potential investments. Prefeasibility studies typically give an overview of a mining project’s logistics, capital requirements, key challenges and other information deemed important to the decision-making process.

When and why do companies undertake them?

Pre-feasibility studies act as one of the first explorations of a potential investment, following a preliminary resource report and the creation of an orebody model. Based on the data procured by various assessments, a pre-feasibility study may occur. Companies use these studies to collect information before investing millions of dollars into tasks like acquiring permits or research equipment.

What information do they include?

In addition to information relating to geological models and mine design, pre-feasibility studies also take into account factors that may impact or interfere with the final project. That can involve community issues, geographic obstacles, permit challenges and more.

A comprehensive pre-feasibility study should include detailed designs and descriptions for mine operation, as well as cost estimates, project risks, safety issues and other important information. There should also be multiple options included in the study for tackling different issues, as that will provide organizations with more ways to overcome potential challenges.

What happens if results of the pre-feasibility study are positive? Negative?

If a pre-feasibility study results in a positive base-case scenario, the company will likely move on to the next stage: a feasibility study. If the study is negative, organizations may head back to the drawing board or abandon the potential project altogether.

What is a feasibility study?

Feasibility studies are in-depth reports on many of the same topics as prefeasibility studies. They are meant to be much more accurate than prefeasibility studies and require more resources to conduct. Feasibility studies should offer estimates that are within 10- to 20-percent accuracy, whereas prefeasibility studies are allowed to run between 20 and 30 percent. These studies are intended to evaluate if a mineral reserve can be mined effectively and will be profitable. Detailed feasibility studies are also used as the basis for a project’s capital estimates.

When and why do companies undertake them?

At this point in the process, organizations already have large sums of money at stake and a drive to see their project through to completion. Feasibility studies are all about reducing risks and addressing potential issues that may complicate a project. The studies also include information that is helpful for stakeholders like local governments or environmental analysts.

In a guide to feasibility studies, Don Hofstrand and Mary Holz-Clause of Iowa State University note, “[a] feasibility study is usually conducted after producers have discussed a series of business ideas or scenarios.” The number of business alternatives being considered can be reduced from here.

What information do they include?

Feasibility studies cover many important points, including technical, economic, legal, operational and scheduling issues related to a project. Good feasibility studies should be able to address questions across these topics. A study should feature information about whether a project is technically possible, how much it will cost, whether it’s in accordance with the law, how operations will work and when it can be completed.

Market analysis research can also be a vital part of the feasibility study phase. This type of research is intended to ensure that there is demand for the metal or commodity a project may produce. Market research also helps to zero in on competition in the marketplace. This type of information on markets and demand is especially valuable for investors.

What happens if results of the feasibility study are positive? Negative?

Feasibility studies act as tools that provide CEOs and mining engineers with as much detailed information as possible to make intelligent and strategic decisions regarding a project. Decisions will vary but can include choices like canceling projects, bringing in partners, increasing investment or changing schedules.

Why should investors care?

Both pre-feasibility and feasibility studies can provide investors with useful updates on the progress of a company’s project. These studies help create a more concrete picture about a company’s milestones and challenges moving forward.

This is an updated version of an article originally published by the Investing News Network .