Piedmont Lithium, a key supplier to Tesla, has secured a crucial mining permit in North Carolina, USA, to develop one of the largest lithium sources in the country. The permit, issued by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, paves the way for Piedmont’s lithium project in Gaston County.
The project, known as Carolina Lithium, is strategically located within the Carolina Tin-Spodumene Belt and the U.S. Battery Belt. Piedmont Lithium aims to develop Carolina Lithium as one of the lowest-cost, most sustainable lithium hydroxide operations globally, positioning it as a critical component of the American electric vehicle supply chain.
However, delays in the project have led to an amended supply contract with Tesla. Originally intended to supply Tesla by July 2023, Piedmont Lithium will now initially supply Tesla from Canada, as per the revised agreement reached in early 2023.
While the mining permit marks a significant milestone, Piedmont Lithium still needs to obtain permits for state air quality and wastewater. County board of commissioners chair, Chad Brown, stated that these permits will not be considered until July due to the county’s annual budget review process. Brown emphasized the importance of balancing economic impact with environmental considerations.
The approval process has not been without challenges, with Piedmont Lithium facing criticism for strategic missteps and a lack of communication with local legislators. Despite these challenges, Piedmont Lithium remains a global player, with plans to open a lithium mine in Ghana in 2025, in addition to its operations in Quebec. Piedmont Lithium also counts LG Chem among its customers, with the company sourcing lithium from Piedmont’s Canadian stores.
