** Shares of Firebird Metals rise 4.6% to A$0.115, set for their biggest pct gain since Oct. 11

** Manganese producer reports upbeat energy consumption trial results for its rotary kiln

** Says its kiln consumes 70% less energy vs conventional kilns, saving it $30/tonne in costs

** About 231,000 shares change hands, 2x the 30-day avg

** Stock down ~21% YTD, including current session, as at 0206 GMT

(Reporting by Kumar Tanishk in Bengaluru)

((Tanishk.Kumar@thomsonreuters.com;))