October 27, 2025 • 3 min read
Capital efficiency:
The key to sustainable growth
In the resources sector, capital is a critical, at‑risk asset.
From final investment decision (FID) to completion, capital projects routinely overspend by an average of 52 percent, a failure rate that has persisted for over 15 years. Only 17 percent of projects are meeting their original cost and schedule targets, leading to a lack of investor confidence, with some institutions now viewing mining as an unreliable destination for funds.
The energy transition demands a reliable surge in the supply of copper, lithium, nickel and rare earths. Without better capital predictability, global decarbonization timelines and economic stability are at serious risk. This is no longer just a mining problem; it’s a systemic risk to the world’s climate and industrial future.
Helping solve the structural causes
We bring discipline to feasibility studies and early estimates, confronting optimism bias with real data. We track and report performance against industry benchmarks, helping our customers and their funders gain confidence in both forecasts and delivery.
Risk-shifting approaches inflate costs and decrease collaboration. We move away from transactional models that push risk down the chain. Instead building partnerships where success is shared. Models like EPCM, EPC and Lean IPD reward outcomes, not just activities, aligning all parties to deliver faster and more predictable results.
Siloed systems prevent teams from making decisions that should be driven by data. That’s why we’re embedding connected project data platforms, predictive tools and digital twins into the foundations of delivery. This reduces rework, accelerates execution and provides transparency for customers and investors.
Technology developers often encounter challenges beyond the technical realm. The final stages of development and transfer require the right skills to support capital investment and the integration of technology into broader operational settings. We help developers achieve this while maintaining best practices of limiting information disclosure.
Commodity prices are volatile, resulting in a lack of investor confidence in the ever-changing supply chain. We support miners and investors by ensuring transparency throughout the entire project lifecycle.
Insights and discussions
Is thinking small the future for big projects? How does Lean IPD challenge engineering’s linear approach to project development? What is the role of new contacting models and breakthrough technology? Read more from our experts.
Engineers as tech partners
Technology development is only half the story – partnering the right people and safeguarding IP are the game-changers. Let our case-study paper guide your next step.
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A unified response
The industry is at a tipping point, and business as usual is no longer an option. With new models, connected data and transparent partnerships, we’re helping our customers transform capital into certainty.
But we can’t do it alone.
The challenge demands a united industry response grounded in transparent data, shared standards and accountability from sector leaders. With capital in short supply, only those who manage it predictably and responsibly will earn the trust and funding to deliver the projects the energy transition requires.