Ioneer Ltd (ASX:INR, OTC:GSCCF, NASDAQ:IONR) has cleared yet another obstacle to development and construction at the Rhyolite Ridge Lithium-Boron Project in Nevada, US, having received the final environmental impact statement (EIS) from the Bureau of Land Management.
The milestone places Rhyolite Ridge as the first lithium project to reach this advanced stage of permitting under the Biden Administration’s efforts to accelerate lithium production within the US.
The company says its project is set to quadruple the United State’s lithium supply, reducing reliance on foreign sources while also providing hundreds of jobs for the local area of Esmeralda County in Nevada.
Maximising benefits, minimising impact
“Since Ioneer’s work at Rhyolite Ridge began in 2016, we have listened to members of the community and adapted our plans to maximise the project’s many economic benefits while minimising indirect impacts to the community and environment,” Ioneer managing director Bernard Rowe said.
“Rhyolite Ridge is stronger because of the extensive collaboration and input from all involved stakeholders.
“Today’s issuance not only advances the Rhyolite Ridge project but brings the United States closer to a more secure and sustainable source of domestic critical minerals.”
As part of the EIS, the US Fish and Wildlife Service also confirmed the project will not jeopardise the ESA-listed Tiehm’s buckwheat or adversely modify its critical habitat.
Its issuance marks the end of the ESA consultation process between USFWS and the Bureau of Land Management regarding Rhyolite Ridge.
Building a clean energy future
“The publication of the Final EIS is a significant milestone for Rhyolite Ridge,” Ioneer executive chair James Calaway said.
“This achievement underscores our company’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development.
“We look forward to the conclusion of the 30-day statutory waiting period and timely issuance of the Record of Decision to advance Rhyolite Ridge into construction.
“We are eager to get to work in contributing to the domestic supply of critical materials essential for the transition to a clean energy future.”
Ioneer expects to receive a record of decision in October this year – upon receipt, the company will make a final investment decision and construction at the project can begin.
INR anticipates production at Rhyolite Ridge Lithium-Boron Project to begin in 2028.