Energy Fuels' Donald Rare Earth and Mineral Sand Joint Venture in Australia Receives Final Major Regulatory Approvals

Core Viewpoint - The Donald Project, a joint venture between Energy Fuels and Astron Corporation, is recognized as a significant near-term source of rare earth minerals, with plans for processing at Energy Fuels' White Mesa Mill in Utah [1][2][11]. Project Approval and Financing - The Government of Victoria, Australia has approved the Work Plan for the Donald Project, marking the final major regulatory approval needed for construction and operation [2][3]. - This approval allows for the finalization of financing arrangements before a final investment decision (FID) can be made [3]. Joint Venture Details - Energy Fuels has the right to invest a total of AU$183 million (approximately US$119 million) and issue US$17.5 million in common shares to earn up to a 49% interest in the Donald Project [4]. - The project is expected to provide a low-cost, long-term supply of rare earth mineral concentrate, which will be processed into high-purity separated rare earth elements (REEs) at the White Mesa Mill [4][5]. Production Capacity and Phases - Phase 1 of the Donald Project is anticipated to supply approximately 7,000 to 8,000 metric tons of rare earth mineral concentrate per year, starting as early as 2026 [6]. - This phase is expected to yield around 4,700 tonnes of total rare earth oxides (TREO), including 990 tonnes of separated neodymium-praseodymium (NdPr) [6]. - Following Phase 1, a Phase 2 expansion is planned, which could increase production to approximately 13,000 to 14,000 tonnes per year of rare earth mineral concentrate [7]. Processing and Market Potential - The White Mesa Mill is equipped to process the Phase 1 quantities of rare earth mineral concentrate into separated NdPr and other REEs [6][8]. - The Donald Project's output could fulfill about 22% to 23% of the planned capacity of the Phase 2 Mill Expansion [8]. Strategic Importance - The Donald Project is viewed as a critical link between the U.S. and Australia for rare earths and critical minerals, essential for various commercial and defense technologies [5][11]. - The project is expected to provide a significant and consistent source of REE feedstock for Energy Fuels for decades [7].