Jindalee’s McDermitt Project Gains FAST-41 Transparency Boost in US Permitting

Strategic Federal Recognition

Jindalee Lithium Limited has secured a significant milestone for its 100%-owned McDermitt Lithium Project in the United States, with the project officially designated as a “Transparency Project” under the US FAST-41 permitting framework. This status places McDermitt among a select group of only ten resource projects nationally recognized for their strategic importance to US critical minerals supply chains and energy security.

FAST-41, enacted in 2015, aims to streamline and bring transparency to federal permitting processes for projects deemed nationally significant. By listing McDermitt on the Federal Permitting Dashboard, the project gains enhanced visibility and improved coordination between federal and state agencies, which is intended to reduce delays and support faster decision-making.

Permitting Progress and Environmental Review

The McDermitt Project is currently in the final stages of its National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) review, with an Environmental Assessment recently published for public comment. Approval of the Exploration Plan of Operations (EPO) is anticipated to unlock further on-site activities, including drilling and additional metallurgical testing, critical steps toward advancing the project’s development.

While Transparency Project status does not confer legally enforceable permitting schedules or guarantee federal funding, it signals strong federal interest and prioritization. This contrasts with the more rigorous “Covered Project” designation, currently held by only one US mining project, South32’s Hermosa Project in Arizona.

Government Partnerships and Funding Prospects

Jindalee’s US subsidiary, HiTech Minerals Inc., has been actively engaging with key government agencies. Notably, a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with the US Department of Energy was executed in late 2024, and a grant application with the Department of Defense to co-fund a Feasibility Study is pending, with decisions expected in the first half of 2025.

These collaborations underscore the project’s alignment with recent US executive orders aimed at boosting domestic mineral production and reducing reliance on foreign supply chains. Jindalee has also appointed advisors and begun discussions with prospective strategic and funding partners, leveraging the increased permitting transparency to bolster confidence.

Market and Strategic Implications

Jindalee’s CEO Ian Rodger emphasized the significance of the designation, stating it validates McDermitt’s role in US mineral security and enhances the project’s profile among federal agencies. The company’s commitment to transparent and responsible development is expected to facilitate smoother permitting and operational progress.

Given the global surge in lithium demand driven by electric vehicle and battery markets, McDermitt’s advancement under the FAST-41 framework positions Jindalee as a key player in the US critical minerals landscape. However, the ultimate pace and success of permitting remain contingent on regulatory outcomes and funding decisions.