CB&I Secures Major Contract with Lithium Nevada for Thacker Pass Project
CB&I Secures Major Contract with Lithium Nevada for Thacker Pass Project
CB&I, a leader in engineering and construction, has announced that it has entered a substantial contract with Lithium Nevada LLC, a subsidiary of Lithium Americas Corp., to execute engineering, procurement, fabrication, and construction (EPFC) tasks at the Thacker Pass lithium mining site. This project aims to deliver 36 atmospheric tanks essential for the mining operations, with construction taking place in Humboldt County, northern Nevada.
Overview of the Thacker Pass Project
Thacker Pass is recognized as the world's largest measured lithium resource, boasting significant reserves crucial for meeting the increasing demand for lithium over the coming years. The project will play a pivotal role in alleviating America's dependence on foreign sources for critical minerals, contributing to a sustainable and secure domestic lithium supply chain essential for the battery industry.
Mark Butts, President and CEO of CB&I, expressed pride in supporting Lithium Nevada and Bechtel in delivering this nationally significant lithium project. He emphasized that the Thacker Pass project not only facilitates a steady supply chain for lithium in the U.S. but also creates job opportunities during its construction and operational phases.
The tanks constructed by CB&I will serve essential storage functions, housing various process solutions vital in the purification processes used to extract lithium from clay deposits. The design of these tanks adheres to rigorous environmental, seismic, and safety standards, ensuring that they meet the demands of complex industrial operations.
The Role of CB&I in the Project
CB&I's extensive expertise in large-scale storage solutions makes it an ideal contractor for Thacker Pass. Their track record of successfully delivering intricate industrial infrastructure underlines their capability in this domain. The tanks will be manufactured using proprietary construction methods and advanced fabrication techniques, ensuring precision and reliability in their operations.
Richard Gerspacher, Executive Vice President of Capital Projects at Lithium Americas, highlighted the importance of CB&I's proven experience and global reach. He insisted that CB&I is well-equipped to contribute to this massive mining undertaking, given its proficiency in developing intricate storage infrastructures designed for demanding industrial applications.
Dan Dawson, Deputy Project Director at Bechtel, also lauded CB&I's participation in the initiative, recognizing the company's reputation as an industry leader. With collaborative efforts from top-tier contractors like CB&I, the Thacker Pass project is poised for success, ensuring a solid foundation for North America's largest lithium mining operation.
Conclusion
In a world where the demand for lithium is skyrocketing, driven by the explosive growth of electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies, the Thacker Pass project represents a beacon of progress. With CB&I at the helm of engineering and construction, the project not only promises a boost in local employment but also contributes to a sustainable future free from over-reliance on foreign sources. As America embarks on this journey towards energy independence, initiatives like Thacker Pass will prove invaluable.