Ioneer’s Rhyolite Ridge receives key EIS approval, paving the way for US lithium production

Emerging lithium–boron producer Ioneer (ASX: INR) has received key permitting approvals to advance its Rhyolite Ridge project in Nevada, USA.

Managing Director Bernard Rowe said the Rhyolite Ridge project is now closer to construction following the publication by the US Bureau of Land Management of the project’s final environmental impact statement (EIS).

Rhyolite Ridge is the first lithium-related project to reach this advanced stage of the environmental permitting review process under the current federal government, as part of its efforts to accelerate US lithium production.

‘Extensive collaboration’

Mr Rowe stated that the declaration of the final EIS follows years of effective collaboration between Ioneer, local tribal nations and federal, state and local agencies.

“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 on the community and environment,” he 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 also brings the US closer to a more secure and sustainable source of domestic critical minerals.”

Waiting period

The giant project is expected to quadruple lithium supply in the US—a major development for the country’s plans to create its own local supply chain.

“The publication of the final EIS is a significant milestone for Rhyolite Ridge,” executive chair James Calaway said.

“We look forward to the conclusion of the 30-day statutory waiting period and the 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.”

Detailed information

The Final EIS incorporates feedback received during the earlier public comment period and provides decision-makers and the public with detailed information related to the project, including its on-site processing facility.

As part of the Final EIS, the US Fish and Wildlife Service also formally released an Endangered Species Act (ESA) Section 7 Biological Opinion.

This report concluded that Rhyolite Ridge will not jeopardise the ESA-listed Tiehm’s buckwheat or adversely modify its critical habitat.