University of North Dakota spearheads rare earth mineral production in Williston Basin

In a recent meeting of the North Dakota Legislature's Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, significant strides were discussed regarding the state's potential in rare earth and critical minerals production. This initiative is crucial for enhancing national energy security and economic stability, as rare earth elements are vital for various technologies, including renewable energy systems and electronics.

The committee highlighted the completion of Phase 1 of the U.S. Department of Energy's Carbon or Rare Earth and Critical Minerals Initiative (CoreCM). This phase involved identifying and characterizing rare earth availability in the Williston Basin, with promising results showing several areas in North Dakota exceeding the economic production threshold of 300 parts per million. The focus now shifts to Phase 2, which aims to expand the assessment to include other potential sources beyond coal and address regional infrastructure and permitting challenges.

The North Dakota Geological Survey has been instrumental in this effort, collecting over 100 samples from various sources, including produced water and coal from the MHA Nation. A business case analysis for the production and processing of North Dakota's rare earths is expected to be released in the coming months, further positioning the state as a leader in domestic production.

Dan Lodol from the University of North Dakota's College of Engineering and Mines elaborated on the technological advancements being made to extract and concentrate these minerals. The proposed commercial-scale plant would process between 200,000 tons of lignite per year, with an estimated cost of around $100 million. This facility would not only contribute to the local economy but also establish a value chain that includes mining, refining, and manufacturing of rare earth products.

The committee members expressed interest in collaboration with neighboring states, indicating a broader regional effort to develop this emerging industry. The potential for a multi-billion dollar industry in North Dakota is on the horizon, contingent upon the success of initial projects and the establishment of a robust infrastructure for extraction and processing.

As North Dakota moves forward with these initiatives, the community can anticipate new economic opportunities and advancements in energy security, reinforcing the state's role in the national landscape of critical mineral production.