Metals

The US Department of Energy’s Office of Critical Minerals and Energy Innovation has allocated $500 million to seven projects aimed at expanding critical mineral processing, battery manufacturing, and recycling capacity in the country. This investment aligns with efforts to strengthen American energy security and advance domestic production capabilities, benefiting American industry and workers.

The Trump administration continues to strengthen the domestic critical minerals and materials supply chain with a recent $2.9 million funding commitment. The U.S. Army’s decision to lease underutilized land for mineral processing also supports this effort, which is essential for American industry and national competitiveness.

NioCorp Developments shared the findings of a revised feasibility study for its Elk Creek critical minerals project in Nebraska, revealing a 40-year, integrated U.S. operation with a net present value exceeding $4 billion. The project is estimated to generate around $37.4 billion in revenue over its mine life, showcasing its potential impact on American industry and production.

The Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration (SME) has praised the Trump administration’s recent announcement of over $180 million allocated to mining education and workforce development programs as part of a larger $3 billion investment in domestic critical minerals mining. This initiative, highlighted at a Presidential roundtable, aims to boost mining and critical-minerals-related degree programs, potentially benefiting American industry and skilled workers.