Lithium Americas has scored a strategic investment of $250 million from global investment firm Orion Resource Partners for the development and construction of Phase 1 of the Thacker Pass lithium project in Humboldt County, Nev.
“Orion’s long-term investing horizon and experience with resource development makes them an excellent partner for Lithium Americas and Thacker Pass and contributes to our strong relationships with General Motors and the U.S. Department of Energy,” said Jonathan Evans, president and CEO, Lithium Americas.
“Orion’s commitment to this project highlights the strategic importance of Thacker Pass to national security and developing a domestic supply chain, as we work to reduce American dependence on foreign suppliers for critical minerals.”
Lithium Americas expects that the initial $220 million investment will satisfy all remaining requirements from both the U.S. Department of Energy and General Motors to satisfy all remaining equity capital fundraising requirements under a previously announced $2.26 billion loan from the DOE.
The investment positions Lithium Americas to be fully funded at both the project and corporate level for the duration of construction and provides Lithium Americas with meaningful liquidity post-final investment decision to manage its corporate overhead costs and other expenses during construction. First draw on the DOE loan is expected to occur sometime in the third quarter of 2025.
Completion of Phase 1 of the Thacker Pass project is targeted for late 2027.
Source: Lithium Americas