The discovery of a fresh water source within the boundaries of NOA Lithium Brines Inc.'s Rio Grande Project in Argentina's Lithium Triangle represents a significant leap forward for the company and the lithium industry at large. This development is crucial as access to industrial water is a pivotal factor in the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of lithium brine projects, especially in arid regions where such resources are scarce.
NOA Lithium's CEO, Gabriel Rubacha, highlighted the strategic importance of this discovery, noting its proximity to areas with the highest lithium concentration and the planned location for production facilities and evaporation ponds. This alignment not only streamlines the project's development but also promises to reduce both capital and operational expenses associated with water procurement and transportation.
The Rio Grande Project, situated in the heart of the Lithium Triangle, benefits from its location in one of the world's most prolific lithium-producing regions. NOA Lithium's extensive land holdings in Salta Province, a mining-friendly jurisdiction, further enhance the project's potential. With a Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) expected in Q3 2025, the company is on a fast track to evaluating the economic viability of producing up to 20,000 metric tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent annually, with plans to potentially double this capacity.
This water discovery is the latest in a series of strategic achievements for NOA Lithium, underscoring the company's progress in derisking its flagship project. As global demand for lithium continues to rise, driven by the electric vehicle and energy storage sectors, NOA Lithium's advancements position it as a promising contributor to the lithium supply chain. The implications of this discovery extend beyond the company, offering insights into the evolving dynamics of lithium production and the critical role of resource management in sustainable mining practices.
