Lithium Americas to Start Thacker Pass Build in May 2025

Lithium Americas to Start Thacker

Lithium Americas confirms Thacker Pass construction start in May, targeting production by late 2027 to boost U.S. lithium supply.

Thacker Pass Lithium Project Set for Major Construction Phase

Lithium Americas (LAC) will begin major construction at its Thacker Pass project in Nevada starting May 2025. The company aims to reach initial production by late 2027, reinforcing its role in North America's lithium supply chain. Engineering progress has already reached 55% and is expected to exceed 90% design completion by year-end.

LAC’s CEO Jonathan Evans emphasized the readiness to move forward after securing funding and partnerships. “Once we declare final investment decision, our team will focus on execution,” Evans said. This milestone follows the finalization of a $2.26 billion Department of Energy (DOE) loan in October 2024.

Funding and Strategy Behind the U.S. Lithium Push

In March 2025, LAC received a $250 million investment from Orion Resource Partners to support Phase 1 development. The DOE loan—secured under the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Loan Program—will help build processing infrastructure. Meanwhile, LAC reported a $42.6 million net loss in 2024, up from $5.1 million in 2023, mainly from DOE and GM deal costs.

The Thacker Pass project is one of the most advanced lithium developments in the United States. Its strategic importance has grown amid increasing global demand for EV battery-grade lithium. The project also marks a significant step toward U.S. efforts to reduce reliance on imported lithium, especially from China.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Thacker Pass isn't just a mining project—it’s a cornerstone of U.S. energy security policy. As governments and automakers race toward EV adoption, domestic lithium supply is becoming as critical as oil once was. The Metalnomist will be watching closely as Lithium Americas enters this pivotal execution phase.