Infinity Lithium Corporation Ltd (ASX:INF) continues to make progress in the development of the San José Lithium Project in Spain and is on track to submit an exploitation concession application (ECA) under the tenure Exploration Permit Extremadura SE. (PESE).
The submission of an ECA would mark an important milestone in the company’s progress towards the realisation of a critical lithium resource.
Positive project pathway
Infinity believes that the current project development pathway is unaffected by recent local and regional elections, held on May 28, and indeed that they provided an opportunity for engagement with incoming representatives.
The company says it is eager to work with local and regional authorities who have expressed support for the project, recognising the potential environmental, technical and economic benefits it is likely to bring.
CEO Ramon Jimenez said: “We are looking forward to engaging positively and directly with incoming local and regional representatives who have highlighted the benefits of the project and desire to progress with the requisite environmental, technical and economic benefits for the region.
“The community recognises the generational opportunities aligned to the project development and complementary industries as the global race for critical raw materials intensifies.”
Incoming mayor of Cáceres Rafael Mateos, from the Popular Party (PP), emphasised his party's support for the project, provided there is no environmental damage to the city and its surroundings and that associated industries are developed.
Approvals progress
Infinity's subsidiary Extremadura New Energies will continue to progress the Mining Licence Application (MLA) and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) submission.
These documents incorporate responses from local and regional stakeholders as detailed in the EIA Scoping Document. Technical and administrative works have continued throughout the election period and the company expects to submit the ECA in the fourth quarter of 2023.
Importantly, the High Court of Justice of Extremadura has determined that investigation permits previously included in the project area are now annulled. As a result, the San José Lithium Project will solely operate under the granted Exploration Permit PESE.
Infinity Lithium says it remains committed to the responsible development of the San José Lithium Project and looks forward to the continued support of the local community and stakeholders.