First Phosphate receives DIBC approval for securing phosphate supply

First Phosphate Corp. announced that its proposal to secure a North American supply of phosphate for lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cathodes has received a "Compliant" designation from the Defense Industrial Base Consortium (DIBC). This approval, while not accompanied by immediate funding, makes the project eligible for award for 36 months if funds become available.

The proposed solution is considered technically and economically viable. With funding through the Defense Production Act, it could establish the first North American facility dedicated to the production of phosphate for LFP batteries. This development is considered essential to reduce dependence on imports, primarily from China.

The DIBC recognizes that the food and fertilizer industries currently monopolize domestic phosphate supplies, highlighting the importance of new infrastructure for battery production, potentially supported by Title III DPA funds.