Demonstrating a commitment to responsible mining, community engagement and workforce development, the Kings Mountain Mine project achieved several key milestones as Albemarle continues efforts to develop one of the richest spodumene ore deposits in the world. Here are a few highlights from the past year:
Dewatering the Legacy Mine Pit
Initiated in April, the dewatering process has successfully discharged nearly 700 million gallons of treated water, reducing the mine pit's water level by over 25 feet. This 18-month endeavor is on track for completion by fall 2025.
Presented the Mine’s Project Plan
In June, Albemarle hosted a community open house to the proposed mine’s layout, anticipated application of responsible mining practices, material storage plans and permitting processes. Attendees utilized an interactive tool to see potential visual impacts from various vantage points surrounding the project site, fostering informed discussions and addressing community inquiries.
Released the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) Scoping Report
After releasing the Draft ESIA Scoping Report in June, over the summer, a 60-day public comment period was conducted to gather feedback on the report. Albemarle held six community meetings, receiving over 200 comments on topics such as project plans, water management, economic opportunities, and community health and safety. The feedback has been included with the final scoping report which was released in December.
Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Final Scoping Report
Submitted Permits
In September, Albemarle submitted several state and federal permit applications, marking a pivotal step in the mine's redevelopment. The company is now engaged in a multi-year permitting phase, seeking over 30 permits from city, state and federal agencies to facilitate the construction and operation of the proposed mine.
Press Release for state and federal permits
Beneficial Use of Materials with Martin Marietta’s Kings Mountain Quarry
Albemarle plans to partner with Martin Marietta Materials to supply non-ore-bearing material from mining operations to their adjacent quarry. This material is anticipated to be processed and sold by Martin Marietta as construction aggregate, with a portion of the proceeds directed to a non-profit entity supporting initiatives in Kings Mountain and surrounding communities.
Albemarle Kings Mountain and Martin Marietta Partnership
Donated to Cleveland Community College
Demonstrating a commitment to local workforce development, Albemarle donated $1 million to Cleveland Community College. This funding is designed to support the college's heavy equipment operator program and customized training for roles within the mine's mineral processing facility. Additionally, the college is assisting in developing apprenticeship programs for electrical and process operations positions.
Albemarle Kings Mountain & Cleveland Community College Partnership
A Continued Commitment to Stakeholder Outreach and Community Support
Throughout the year, our Kings Mountain project team actively engaged with the community through various initiatives:
- Conducted 39 public tours, welcoming nearly 350 participants
- Hosted 24 community engagement meetings to foster open dialogue
- Sponsored over 50 events across Cleveland County supporting local activities
- Facilitated more than 20 educational and student engagement sessions, promoting learning and development
- Volunteered at 15 community service projects, demonstrating our commitment to local non-profit efforts.
Since 2016, Albemarle has contributed more than $2.5 million to Kings Mountain and the surrounding communities towards programs focused on education, health and wealth and cultural initiatives.
Looking Ahead to 2025
We anticipate another busy year with progress to expected to continue in a few notable areas:
- Albemarle has acquired properties within the planned project boundaries that contain existing structures. We anticipate commencing with the safe demolition of these structures.
- To proceed with mine construction activities, a 230kv power line needs to be redirected prior to those activities. Albemarle plans to work with Duke Energy to commence that process.
- The ESIA process will continue with the release of several additional reports detailing potential project impacts and mitigation measures with an additional public comment period being conducted. The final ESIA is expected to be finalized by the end of 2025.
Lastly, we intend to continue consistently engaging with area stakeholders about the planned project through our Project Center, community meetings and participation in community events. These initiatives underscore Albemarle's dedication to responsible mining, community engagement and economic development as the company advances the Kings Mountain Mine project.