The miner has secured three 15-year contracts that will guarantee 1.8 terawatt hours per year.

The study is due by the end of 2024 or early 2025.

East Star currently holds copper licenses on the Verkhuba deposit, which hosts a JORC-compliant exploration target of 19-23 million tonnes grading 1.4-1.9% copper equivalent.

Abitibi is advancing a plan to earn 80% of the project over seven years from Soquem.

The changes led by CEO Mike Henry will see several specialist teams disbanded and their functions reassigned in a bid to cut costs and simplify operations.

CEO Graham Kerr said the deal will streamline the company's portfolio and unlock capital to invest in development projects in copper and zinc.

The plant's official opening will be in March after six years of exploration and a $200 million investment.