Governor Joe Lombardo Tours Thacker Pass Lithium Project

On Friday, March 13th, Governor Lombardo visited the Thacker Pass lithium project in Humboldt County, touring one of the most significant energy and critical minerals developments underway in the United States.

"It was great to see the tremendous progress underway at Thacker Pass," said Governor Lombardo. "The scale of development here is remarkable and a testament to the hardworking men and women building this facility. I want to thank the team at Thacker Pass and Lithium Americas for hosting us and for the work they're doing to move this project forward. This investment will bring strong economic development to Nevada, creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and strengthening Humboldt County's economy while positioning the state as a leader in the responsible development of critical minerals and advanced energy."

Governor Lombardo met with project leaders and executives to get an update on the progress made since construction began and learn more about the economic opportunity it represents for Nevada. While on the tour, project leaders emphasized that the development represents a $3 billion investment and will deliver major long-term economic benefits for Nevada and the United States as the country works to strengthen its domestic supply of critical minerals.

Thacker Pass representatives noted that Governor Lombardo has helped in advancing the project and thanked him for playing an active role.

The scale of construction currently underway underscores that progress. Some important details shared by Thacker Pass:

● Crews are developing a one mile by half-mile area for the project's processing facilities.

● More than 15 cranes are being used on site, including the largest crane operating in
Nevada.

● Roughly 900 skilled construction workers are on site each day helping build the facility.

● The project is expected to ramp up significantly in the coming months, with peak construction employment projected to reach up to 1,800 workers as development
Accelerates.

● Once operational, the project's first phase is expected to produce 40,000 metric tons of battery-grade lithium carbonate annually, helping establish a domestic supply chain for the rapidly growing electric vehicle and battery manufacturing industries.

During the visit, Thacker Pass representatives addressed what they are doing to support the workforce and minimize strain on surrounding communities. Lithium Americas has built a 2,000-room housing facility in nearby Winnemucca, located at the last exit on Interstate 80. The facility opened earlier this year and currently houses more than 700 residents, with plans to accommodate 1,500 or more workers later this year. Company officials say the facility plays a key role in ensuring the large workforce does not overburden the surrounding rural community.

Governor Lombardo previously visited the Thacker Pass site alongside Congressman Mark Amodei a year ago, when construction had not yet started. This week's visit showcased the significant progress made since then, with processing facilities now rising and major equipment arriving on site.

Please see videos and photos from the visit HERE that you are welcome to use in your coverage.

Background on Thacker Pass:

Thacker Pass, developed by Lithium Americas in partnership with General Motors, sits atop the largest known lithium resource in North America and is expected to become one of the most important domestic sources of lithium for electric vehicle batteries and advanced technologies. Lithium is a key component in electric vehicle batteries and energy storage technologies, making projects like Thacker Pass strategically important to national energy security and economic growth.

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