Graphite One Inc. has been added to the FAST-41 Federal Permitting Dashboard, joining a select group of six mining projects identified for accelerated review under the US government’s permitting initiative. This designation supports the implementation of the March 2025 Executive Order, aiming to streamline project approvals for critical mineral and infrastructure development.
The FAST-41 program, administered by the Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council, provides 60 days for participating projects to develop a Coordinated Project Plan (CPP) outlining a detailed permitting schedule. The effort is designed to accelerate timelines for projects deemed essential to national supply chain resilience and economic security.
Graphite One’s inclusion reflects the growing urgency to establish a reliable domestic source of graphite, an essential material used in the production of anode components for lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are foundational to electric vehicles (EVs), energy storage systems, and defense applications.
Currently, the US has no domestic natural graphite production, relying entirely on imports, predominantly from China.
As part of its supply chain development strategy, Graphite One has recently entered into a second non-binding agreement with Lucid Group, an American-based EV manufacturer, to supply anode active materials (AAM). The company’s Graphite Creek project in Alaska is positioned to support this supply chain, from raw material extraction to battery-grade anode production.
Earlier this year, the company published a feasibility study for the Graphite Creek project, completed with support from Defense Production Act Title III funding. The study, finalized 15 months ahead of schedule, showed a tripling of proven and probable reserves.
Graphite One’s CEO stated that the FAST-41 designation, coupled with the expanded resource base and new industry agreements, positions the project to contribute meaningfully to domestic EV battery manufacturing efforts and broader clean energy goals.
As the US works to localize critical mineral supply chains, this development marks a strategic step toward more secure, scalable, and sustainable EV production.
Filed Under: Batteries, Technology News