The capital cost of the mine, which is expected to have a life of over 40 years, is estimated to be $3.1 billion. Production from the mine will continue to increase through the remainder of this year and is expected to reach full capacity in 2023.

“The commissioning of Gudai-Darri represents the successful delivery of our first greenfield mine in over a decade, helping to support increased output of Pilbara Blend, our flagship product,” Rio Tinto Iron Ore Chief Executive Simon Trott said.

In a bid to support its carbon emissions reduction targets, Rio Tinto said the mine will be powered by a 34 megawatt solar farm that is expected to meet about a third of the mine’s average electricity demand once construction is completes in August.