Piedmont Lithium Inc., a prominent North American lithium supplier, has received approval from the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) for a mining permit vital to the Carolina Lithium project in Gaston County, North Carolina. This permit marks a significant milestone for Piedmont, facilitating the project’s construction, operation, and subsequent reclamation. The approval came after a meticulous review process of the application submitted in late August 2021, highlighting the project’s alignment with stringent state standards.
Key Highlights
- Permit Issued by NCDEQ: Enables construction and operation of the Carolina Lithium project.
- Economic and Employment Impact: Expected to generate substantial economic output and hundreds of jobs in Gaston County.
- Strategic Advantages: Situated in the Carolina Tin-Spodumene Belt and U.S. Battery Belt, optimizing both environmental and economic factors.
“This is an exciting day for all of us at Piedmont Lithium. I would like to thank the leadership and staff at NCDEQ and DEMLR for their diligence in the process, as well as the members of our team who worked rigorously for more than two and a half years to ensure that every aspect of the Project met the state’s high standards for approval,” expressed Keith Phillips, President and CEO of Piedmont Lithium. “We plan to develop Carolina Lithium as one of the lowest-cost, most sustainable lithium hydroxide operations in the world, and as a critical part of the American electric vehicle supply chain.”
Carolina Lithium stands out as a highly strategic project due to its location within both the renowned Carolina Tin-Spodumene Belt and the U.S. Battery Belt. This unique positioning allows for an integrated mining operation that aims to produce spodumene concentrate and lithium hydroxide efficiently. “There are currently no such integrated sites operating anywhere in the world, and the economic and environmental advantages of this strategy are compelling,” Phillips added.
Economic projections for the project are favorable, underscored by potential low production costs, excellent infrastructure, minimal transportation needs, and proximity to key markets. These advantages are bolstered by the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, enhancing the project’s after-tax returns.
The path forward involves continued community engagement and rezoning processes in Gaston County, with construction anticipated post-permit and financing approvals. “We have had extensive and ongoing dialogue with possible funding sources for Carolina Lithium, including the U.S. Department of Energy’s Loan Programs Office and strategic parties who could provide some combination of capital, offtake, and technical support,” noted Phillips.
About Piedmont Lithium
Piedmont Lithium Inc. is poised to become a leading lithium hydroxide producer in North America, supporting the clean energy transition with its multi-asset strategy. The company’s portfolio includes projects across the United States and partnerships in Quebec and Ghana, aiming to fortify America’s energy independence and electrification initiatives.
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