Wedoany.com Report-Nov. 13, Emerson, a global automation specialist, has been selected by Lithium Americas to provide its full automation portfolio and technical services for the Thacker Pass lithium project in northern Nevada, US. The project sits on the world’s largest known measured lithium deposit and aims to establish a domestic supply of lithium, essential for electric vehicles, renewable energy storage, and data centres.

Emerson will deliver automation architecture, process control systems, and reliability technologies to optimise production, enhance worker safety, reduce downtime, and minimise environmental impact. Local support will be provided by Caltrol, Emerson’s Impact Partner, which will offer repair and service capabilities in the region.

“As more consumers drive electric vehicles and use renewable energy, the demand for lithium, often called ‘white gold’ for its role in powering clean energy, is expected to grow fivefold from today to 2040,” Emerson noted.

Lithium Americas president and CEO Jonathan Evans said: “Working with Emerson is expected to help us fulfil our purpose to safely and sustainably produce lithium from Thacker Pass. Their automation technologies will help us enable North America to reduce dependence on foreign critical minerals and drive value for our stakeholders.”

Phase 1 of Thacker Pass is expected to produce up to 40,000 tonnes per year of battery-quality lithium carbonate. Emerson COO Ram Krishnan added: “Thacker Pass is a landmark project for North America’s electrification. Our goal is to help Lithium Americas start up safely and operate reliably, powering the next chapter of American innovation.”

Construction at Thacker Pass is already underway, with Emerson and Lithium Americas collaborating to prepare the site for commissioning. The integration of advanced automation technologies is designed to ensure efficient, safe, and environmentally responsible lithium production, supporting North America’s growing demand for clean energy materials.

The project underscores the strategic role of domestic lithium production in the US, as demand for energy storage and electric vehicles continues to rise. By leveraging Emerson’s expertise in automation and process control, Thacker Pass aims to become a reliable and sustainable source of battery-grade lithium carbonate, contributing to the region’s industrial and technological development.

Emerson’s involvement also highlights the importance of local service and maintenance support, ensuring long-term operational stability and responsiveness to site-specific needs. The collaboration reflects a broader trend in critical mineral projects to integrate advanced digital technologies to optimise performance, safety, and environmental outcomes.

With Phase 1 targeting 40,000 t/y production, Thacker Pass is poised to be a key supplier of lithium to North America, supporting electrification, renewable energy storage, and strategic independence in critical mineral supply chains.