Based on these tests only, preliminary estimates provided in a report indicate that very substantial energy savings result. The study suggests that overall direct energy costs to process one tonne of concentrate into metallized ferrochrome alloy are less than half those required for conventional technology. In addition, the process has a considerably lower greenhouse gas emission footprint and greatly reduced impact on the environment. Capital costs are estimated to be significantly lower than those for conventional processes utilizing electrical energy. As previously reported, an international patent of the method is being pursued.