Ontario’s push to become a global hub for critical minerals just gained momentum. The provincial government has officially accelerated Frontier Lithium’s PAK project near Red Lake, making it the first development to advance under Ontario’s new One Project, One Process (1P1P) framework. This initiative is a key step toward positioning Ontario at the heart of North America’s electric vehicle (EV) battery supply chain.
1. Ontario’s Critical Minerals Strategy in Action
Ontario’s Critical Minerals Strategy aims to unlock domestic resources essential to clean energy technologies. The province’s decision to accelerate the PAK Lithium Project underscores its commitment to building a reliable and sustainable battery supply chain.
2. What Is the One Project, One Process (1P1P) Framework?
The 1P1P framework is a whole-of-government approach designed to:
- Streamline environmental and mining approvals
- Reduce delays and duplication
- Ensure meaningful Indigenous consultation
- Attract global investment to Ontario’s mining sector
Under this system, the Ministry of Energy and Mines serves as a single point of contact for all required provincial permits and approvals, with review times expected to be cut by 50%.
3. The Significance of Frontier Lithium’s PAK Project
Frontier Lithium’s PAK project is not only the first under the 1P1P framework but also Canada’s first fully integrated lithium operation, featuring:
- A mine and mill for lithium extraction
- A downstream conversion facility for battery-quality lithium chemicals
This integration makes it a cornerstone for Ontario’s growing EV and clean tech economy.
4. Project Location and Unique Geological Advantages
Located 175 kilometres north of Red Lake, the PAK site boasts:
- High-grade technical and ceramic spodumene
- Exceptionally low iron content, crucial for high-purity lithium production
- Viable deposits that make it one of the most commercially promising lithium sources in North America
5. From Mine to Battery: A Fully Integrated Lithium Operation
Unlike traditional mining ventures, the PAK Lithium Project combines extraction, processing, and chemical conversion in one ecosystem. This end-to-end design helps Ontario reduce its dependency on imported battery materials and supports the development of a domestic EV supply chain.
6. The Thunder Bay Refinery Connection
The project is closely linked to a proposed lithium hydroxide refinery in Thunder Bay, which would be the first of its kind in North America. Once operational, this facility will convert spodumene concentrate from the PAK project into battery-grade lithium hydroxide, a critical ingredient in EV batteries.
7. Strengthening Regional Infrastructure
To support this growth, Ontario has begun engaging local stakeholders and Indigenous communities to plan a new transmission line between Dryden and Red Lake.
This new power infrastructure will:
- Improve energy reliability in the region
- Enable large-scale industrial development
- Support future clean energy projects
8. Indigenous Partnerships and Community Engagement
Frontier Lithium emphasizes collaboration with Indigenous partners, particularly Anishinninew communities, integrating traditional laws and perspectives into project planning.
“This moment defines Ontario’s commitment to responsible, investment-ready critical mineral development that is inclusive of Indigenous perspectives,” said Trevor Walker, President and CEO of Frontier Lithium.
9. Streamlined Approvals and Reduced Red Tape
Through 1P1P, the Ontario government aims to cut approval times in half, ensuring that responsible mining projects can proceed faster without compromising environmental or cultural standards.
10. Economic and Environmental Impacts
The project is expected to:
- Create hundreds of high-skill jobs in Northern Ontario
- Drive clean energy innovation across the province
- Contribute to reduced carbon emissions through localized supply chains
11. Future of Lithium Development in Ontario
Ontario’s streamlined permitting process and integrated lithium strategy are expected to attract global investors and cement Canada’s position as a leading source of sustainable battery materials.
12. A Step Toward a Sustainable Energy Future
The acceleration of the PAK Lithium Project marks a pivotal moment in Ontario’s transition to a green economy. By investing in cleaner technologies, responsible mining, and collaboration with Indigenous communities, Ontario is paving the way toward a carbon-neutral, energy-secure future.