Defense Metals has secured up to C$853,825 ($591,176) from Natural Resources Canada’s Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund.
This funding is aimed at supporting the advancement of infrastructure for the Wicheeda Rare Earth Element deposit north-east of Prince George, British Columbia.
The project is expected to enhance the supply of critical rare earth elements (REEs) in North America.
The funding will be used for an economic study to evaluate the construction of a 46km transmission line connecting Wicheeda to the provincial hydroelectric power grid.
Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Canada Jonathan Wilkinson said: “Developing Canada’s abundant critical minerals drives economic opportunity and creates hundreds of high-paying jobs. The funding provided to Defense Metals for its Wicheeda Rare Earth Element Project will help advance the development of the necessary infrastructure to expand British Columbia’s sustainable critical minerals production.”
The proposed transmission line will ensure a reliable and sustainable power supply for the project and reduce reliance on alternative energy sources.
The study will encompass powerline engineering, environmental studies, archaeological assessments and indigenous engagement.
This initiative builds on the recently completed pre-feasibility study (PFS), which confirmed the Wicheeda Project’s economic viability.
Defense Metals CEO Mark Tory said: “We are very grateful for this important endorsement from Natural Resources Canada and its Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund. This funding is the first step to advancing crucial infrastructure for the Wicheeda Project, the only rare earth project in Canada with current proven and probable reserves.
“As North America’s most advanced rare earth developer, we are bridging the critical minerals supply gap by positioning Wicheeda as a key future supplier of these essential rare earth materials.”
Defense Metals and MLIB, an equity partner in the project, have a co-design agreement, integrating indigenous perspectives into the project assessment and development.
In September 2024, Defense Metals signed a memorandum of understanding with the Saskatchewan Research Council to strengthen the REEs supply chain in Canada.
