Core Insights - The Tonopah Flats Lithium Project (TFLP) has demonstrated strong economic potential with a 21.8% Internal Rate of Return (IRR) and a Net Present Value (NPV) of $2.57 billion at an 8% discount rate, reinforcing its strategic importance in the U.S. lithium supply chain [1][3][10] Project Overview - The TFLP is located near Tonopah, Nevada, and is designed to produce 30,000 tonnes per year of lithium hydroxide monohydrate (LHM) over a 45-year mine life [3][6] - The project utilizes innovative processing techniques that reduce production costs to $4,307 per tonne of LHM, a 9.2% decrease from previous assessments [3][11] Resource and Reserve Estimates - The project has seen a 53% increase in Measured and Indicated Resources, totaling 15.78 million tonnes, and an 11% increase in total lithium resources compared to the April 2024 Initial Assessment [5][12] - Proven and probable reserves have been established at 2.73 million tonnes of LHM, confirming the project's economic viability [5][15] Financial Metrics - The project has an after-tax NPV of $2.57 billion and a payback period of 7.5 years from the initial investment [3][11] - The average LHM price is projected at $23,000 per tonne, indicating a favorable market environment for the project's output [11] Permitting and Development - The TFLP has been selected for streamlined permitting under the FAST-41 initiative, expediting the approval process for construction and operation [3][4] - The company has completed all required NEPA Baseline Reports and submitted a comprehensive Mine Plan of Operations, which are currently under review [3][4] Future Steps - The company plans to proceed with a Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) to further de-risk the project and refine engineering and cost estimates, with an estimated cost of $5.8 million to $6.8 million [17][20] - Key future activities include continued engagement with local utilities for power infrastructure and community engagement to ensure mutual benefits [20]
American Battery Technology Company Publishes Milestone Pre-Feasibility Study Accelerating Commercialization of its Tonopah Flats Lithium Project, One of the Largest Lithium Resources in the United States