The mill was kept on care and maintenance in 2010, and has been undergoing modifications to allow it to process ore from Cameco-operated Cigar Lake.
It is expected to process around one million pounds of uranium this year, and 18 million pounds a year beginning 2018, when the Cigar Lake mine will reach full capacity.
Areva Mining Business senior executive vice president Olivier Wantz said: "The start of production at the McClean Lake mill represents a strategic investment for Areva’s mining business and illustrates the quality of our partnership with Canada.
"With McClean Lake mill in operation, AREVA is creating jobs and offering business opportunities in Saskatchewan."
Areva Resources Canada holds 70% stake in the McClean Lake mill, while Denison Mines and OURD Canada own 22.5% and 7.5% stake respectively.
Located 70km away from the Cigar Lake mine, the mill is said to be the first-of-its-kind designed to process uranium ore without dilution.
Image: Areva’s McClean Lake mill in Saskatchewan. Photo: courtesy of Areva.
