Disseminated on behalf of Surge Battery Metals.

Lithium Americas (LAC) has officially broken ground at Thacker Pass, Nevada. The project is advancing toward its first production target in 2028. LAC CEO Jonathan Evans said in the company’s news release that the project should be mechanically complete by the end of 2026. Commissioning will happen through 2027, with commercial production starting in 2028.

For investors watching Nevada clay lithium, this milestone is more than an update. It’s a market signal that could change the investment landscape.

De-Risking the Clay Lithium Category

For years, clay-based lithium has faced a single recurring objection: “It has never been done at a commercial scale.” Unlike brine or hard-rock lithium, sedimentary clay deposits presented a technological and operational unknown. Investors and lenders were cautious, capital costs were higher, and early-stage projects struggled to secure financing.

Thacker Pass changes that narrative. Once LAC makes battery-grade lithium carbonate from sedimentary clay at a commercial scale, it reduces risks for the whole category. Projects in Nevada now have clear proof that clay-based lithium can be mined and processed effectively.

The historical precedent is instructive. In Chile’s Atacama region, the first brine lithium projects proved the chemistry and cost-effectiveness of large-scale lithium extraction. Later projects attracted capital more easily and on better terms. This created a ripple effect, speeding up the region’s lead in global lithium supply.

Thacker Pass is playing that same role for sedimentary clay. Its success is not just a win for LAC. It marks a key milestone for the whole Nevada clay lithium sector, including the Nevada North Lithium Project (NNLP) of Surge Battery Metals (TSX-V: NILI | OTCQX: NILIF).

Understanding the Technical Landscape

Thacker Pass Phase 1 has lithium levels of 1,500–2,500 ppm. They plan to extract it using sulfuric acid leaching to create battery-grade lithium carbonate. The project is important both geographically and operationally.

It features a large pit, a big processing facility, and integrated infrastructure. This covers access roads, water supply management, and energy sources that meet Nevada’s rules.

While Thacker Pass shows commercial viability, it is crucial to note that NNLP and Thacker Pass are not technically the same. NNLP employs a different beneficiation approach and reagent chemistry to optimize recovery.

NNLP: The Higher-Grade, Next-Generation Project

Thacker Pass shows clay lithium on a large scale. NNLP positions itself as the next evolution of this asset class, with clear geological advantages:

• Grade: NNLP averages 3,010 ppm lithium, significantly higher than Thacker Pass Phase 1 material. Recent drilling results show that step-out drilling found a 31-meter intercept with 4,196 ppm lithium from surface. This gives NNLP a potential extraction advantage.
• Strip Ratio: NNLP’s 1.16:1 strip ratio is among the lowest in the sedimentary clay peer group. This indicates that it has favorable material movement requirements relative to ore recovered.
• Operating Costs: NNLP’s estimated OPEX is US$5,097/t LCE, lower than Thacker Pass guidance of ~US$6,200/t C1. It suggests that it has competitive economic positioning within the peer group.

Both projects produce battery-grade lithium carbonate using sulfuric acid leaching. However, each method is customized for the specific geology of the project. NNLP is not a copy of Thacker Pass. Rather, it is a next-generation clay project designed to leverage lessons learned while improving key parameters.

Moreover, infill drilling showed a steady, thick, high-grade core. It included intercepts like 116 meters at 3,752 ppm Li and 32 meters at 4,521 ppm Li. These results support future resource expansion. They also highlight the project’s scale, quality, and technical readiness as it prepares for a Pre-Feasibility Study.

• SEE MORE: Surge Battery Metals Strengthens Nevada North With High-Grade Expansion and Infill Success

Why Category De-Risking Matters for Investors

In emerging resource sectors, de-risking is often more valuable than the resource itself. Projects that validate a new extraction method or commodity unlock several market advantages:

1. Lower financing risk: Investors are more willing to fund projects once proof of concept exists.
2. Improved capital terms: Lending rates and equity expectations can improve when technology and economics are validated.
3. Accelerated project development: Developers can move faster, reduce contingencies, and focus on optimization rather than proving viability.

Thacker Pass’s progress effectively removes the “first-mover risk” from sedimentary clay projects. NNLP has higher grades, near-surface mineralization, and competitive OPEX. Now, it can be assessed on its own merits, not on doubts about large-scale clay processing.

Strategic Significance in the U.S. Lithium Market

The timing of Thacker Pass’s construction and NNLP’s development aligns with broader policy and market trends. Lithium is a critical input for electric vehicles, grid-scale storage, and advanced defense technologies. The U.S. government has emphasized domestic lithium production as a strategic priority.

In March 2025, President Trump signed an executive order called “Immediate Measures to Increase American Mineral Production.” This order directs federal agencies to speed up permitting and support domestic projects. It also aims to lessen dependence on foreign supply chains for critical minerals.

Projects like Thacker Pass and NNLP benefit from this policy. They provide secure domestic sources that boost the lithium supply chain.

Nevada is central to this strategy. Its clay deposits are among the largest and best in the U.S. They provide a stable base for domestic lithium production, which supports electrification goals and helps reduce reliance on imports.

Thacker Pass’s progress also sends a signal beyond the Nevada clay sector. It demonstrates that investors and capital markets are willing to back sedimentary clay projects at scale. That validation reduces perceived risk for future projects. It also speeds up permitting and development timelines as well as strengthens valuation metrics.

NNLP, with its superior grade and shallower resource, stands to benefit disproportionately. It is no longer constrained by questions of category viability. It can now be evaluated based on its geological quality, operational efficiency, and potential returns.

NNLP’s advantages, combined with the category de-risking effect of Thacker Pass, position it as a next-generation investment opportunity in Nevada’s clay lithium space.

Looking Ahead: Domestic Lithium’s Role in Energy Transition

Lithium demand is set to grow rapidly as electric vehicles, battery storage, and renewable systems expand. Securing a high-quality, domestic supply is critical to maintaining U.S. leadership in clean energy technology.

Thacker Pass proves that commercial-scale sedimentary clay lithium is achievable. NNLP demonstrates the potential for even higher efficiency and superior economics within the same category. Together, these projects show how local resources can support the energy transition while providing compelling investment opportunities.

NNLP’s higher grades, near-surface mineralization, low strip ratio, and competitive OPEX position it as a leading asset within a now-validated category.

For NILI investors, the message is clear: the clay lithium category is no longer theoretical, and NNLP is positioned to capitalize on the proof-of-concept success. The best news of the year is here—and it’s grounded in both science and strategy.

• READ MORE: China Cuts Battery Export Rebates, Sending Lithium Prices Up and Boosting NILI’s Role in Global Lithium Supply

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New Era Publishing Inc. and/or CarbonCredits.com (“We” or “Us”) are not securities dealers or brokers, investment advisers, or financial advisers, and you should not rely on the information herein as investment advice. Surge Battery Metals Inc. (“Company”) made a one-time payment of $90,000 to provide marketing services for a term of three months. None of the owners, members, directors, or employees of New Era Publishing Inc. and/or CarbonCredits.com currently hold, or have any beneficial ownership in, any shares, stocks, or options of the companies mentioned.

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Certain statements contained in this news release may constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information generally can be identified by words such as “anticipate,” “expect,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “plan,” and similar expressions suggesting future outcomes or events. Forward-looking information is based on current expectations of management; however, it is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated.

These factors include, without limitation, statements relating to the Company’s exploration and development plans, the potential of its mineral projects, financing activities, regulatory approvals, market conditions, and future objectives. Forward-looking information involves numerous risks and uncertainties and actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking information. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, market volatility, the state of financial markets for the Company’s securities, fluctuations in commodity prices, operational challenges, and changes in business plans.

Forward-looking information is based on several key expectations and assumptions, including, without limitation, that the Company will continue with its stated business objectives and will be able to raise additional capital as required. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, or intended.

There can be no assurance that such forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Additional information about risks and uncertainties is contained in the Company’s management’s discussion and analysis and annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2025, copies of which are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

The forward-looking information contained herein is expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement. Forward-looking information reflects management’s current beliefs and is based on information currently available to the Company. The forward-looking information is made as of the date of this news release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances except as may be required by applicable law.

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The post Thacker Pass Is Being Built: Here Is Why That Is the Best News NILI Investors Have Heard All Year. appeared first on Carbon Credits.

The aviation industry is under pressure to cut emissions while demand for air travel continues to grow. Against this backdrop, Boeing’s latest agreement with Grassroots Carbon signals a clear shift in how large emitters approach climate action. Instead of relying heavily on traditional offsets, the company is now backing high-quality carbon removal rooted in nature.

This multi-year deal focuses on verified soil carbon removal. It reflects a broader industry trend: moving from compensation to actual carbon removal. More importantly, it connects climate goals with real economic benefits for rural communities.

Boeing’s Shift: From Offsets to Real Carbon Removal

Boeing’s agreement to purchase at least 40,000 metric tons of carbon removal credits marks more than just another sustainability initiative. It shows a deeper transition in its carbon strategy.

Earlier, many companies relied on carbon offsets to balance emissions. However, Boeing has refined its approach. It now follows an “avoid first, remove second” model. This means the company prioritizes cutting emissions directly—through renewable electricity and sustainable aviation fuel—before addressing the remaining footprint.

Targeting Scope 3 Emissions 

Still, not all emissions can be eliminated. Business travel, classified under Scope 3 emissions, remains difficult to reduce. This is where carbon removal comes in. By investing in verified soil carbon credits, Boeing aims to tackle these residual emissions more credibly.

At the same time, this approach aligns with growing scrutiny in voluntary carbon markets. Buyers are increasingly looking for durable, science-backed solutions. Soil carbon, when properly measured and maintained, can meet these expectations.

Allison Melia, vice president, Global Enterprise Sustainability, Boeing, said:

“We’re proud to work with Grassroots to accelerate carbon-removal technology that will benefit the entire global aviation industry. Enabling the long-term growth of air travel and supporting our airline customers’ emissions reduction targets are key priorities for Boeing.”

• ALSO SEE: Boeing Locks In 40,000 Tons of Carbon Removal Credits in Major Biochar Climate Deal

Regenerative Ranching: Turning Soil into a Climate Asset

At the core of this agreement lies regenerative ranching—a land management approach that restores ecosystems while capturing carbon.

Unlike conventional grazing, regenerative systems mimic natural herd movements. Ranchers rotate livestock across pastures. This prevents overgrazing and allows vegetation to recover. As a result, plant roots grow deeper and stronger.

This process plays a critical role in carbon sequestration. Through photosynthesis, grasses absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. They then transfer this carbon into the soil through roots and organic matter. Over time, this builds stable soil carbon that can remain stored for decades.

Additionally, grazing itself can enhance this process. When managed properly, it stimulates plant growth and increases carbon storage below ground. Studies suggest these systems can capture between 1 to 5 tons of CO2 per hectare each year.

However, the benefits go beyond carbon. Healthier soils improve water retention, reduce erosion, and support biodiversity. Ranchers also see improved productivity and greater resilience to climate extremes.

This makes regenerative ranching a rare win-win solution. It supports climate goals while strengthening agricultural systems.

Soil Carbon Credits Are Gaining Credibility

Carbon credits often face criticism for lacking transparency or permanence. However, soil carbon credits are evolving quickly.

In this case, credits are generated by tracking changes in soil carbon over time. Projects establish a baseline and then measure improvements driven by regenerative practices. Each credit corresponds to one metric ton of CO2 removed or avoided.

To ensure credibility, projects use a combination of soil sampling, satellite monitoring, and modeling. Independent verification further strengthens trust. Many of these credits meet standards set by leading registries such as Verra and the Climate Action Reserve.

Durability remains a key question. Soil carbon is considered a long-term storage solution, especially when supported by ongoing land management. In many cases, carbon can remain stored for 25 to 100 years or more.

For corporate buyers, this level of integrity is critical. It allows them to make credible climate claims while supporting real-world impact.

How Grassroots Carbon Is Scaling a Natural Climate Solution

The United States holds a unique advantage in this space. Its grasslands cover roughly 655 million acres—nearly 40% of the country’s land area. These landscapes represent one of the largest untapped carbon sinks.

If managed effectively, they could remove up to 1 billion tons of CO2 equivalent annually. That potential makes soil carbon one of the most scalable nature-based solutions available today.

Grassroots Carbon is working to unlock this opportunity. The company partners with ranchers across more than 2.2 million acres in 22 states. It supports them in adopting regenerative practices while ensuring measurable climate outcomes.

Importantly, the company focuses on scientific rigor. It measures soil carbon directly, often up to one meter deep. Then, independent third parties verify the data using recognized standards. This process ensures that each carbon credit represents real and additional carbon removal.

• The company has already delivered 1.9 million tons of verified carbon removals. A large portion of these credits has been retired by corporate buyers, reflecting strong market demand.

This scale matters. It shows that soil carbon is not just a niche solution. Instead, it can operate at a level relevant to global climate goals.

Supporting Rural Economies

Moving on, regenerative ranching supports rural communities by creating new revenue streams. Ranchers can earn income from carbon credits while improving their land. This reduces financial pressure and encourages long-term stewardship.

Moreover, healthier ecosystems provide broader benefits. Improved soil structure enhances water retention, which is critical in drought-prone areas. Restored grasslands also support wildlife habitats, including bird populations.

Grassroots Carbon works with partners such as conservation groups and research institutions to ensure these outcomes. This collaborative approach strengthens both environmental and social impact.

Aviation’s Broader Climate Challenge

The aviation sector faces one of the toughest decarbonization challenges. Unlike power generation or road transport, it cannot be easily electrified. Aircraft require high-energy-density fuels, which limit near-term options.

Sustainable aviation fuel offers a partial solution. However, supply remains limited, and costs are high. As a result, carbon removal will likely play a growing role in the sector’s strategy.

AlliedOffsets estimates that carbon credit buyers will spend around $2.27 billion per year.  Aviation and energy are expected to contribute the most.

• The aviation sector alone has a budget of over $800 million per year, which is about one-third of the total.

Boeing, by supporting soil carbon projects, diversifies its approach to emissions reduction. The biggest advantage is that soil carbon removal is both scalable and immediately deployable. Unlike emerging technologies, it does not require decades of development. Instead, it builds on existing agricultural practices.

At the same time, this move sends a signal to the market. Large buyers can drive demand for high-quality carbon removal. This, in turn, encourages more investment and innovation in the space.

However, scaling this solution will require continued investment, strong verification, and supportive policies. It will also depend on maintaining trust in carbon markets. However, as demand for carbon removal grows, partnerships like this could become a cornerstone of global decarbonization efforts.

• ALSO READ: Boeing Partners With Charm Industrial to Remove 100,000 Tons of CO₂ 

The post Boeing Locks in 40,000 Tons of Soil Carbon Removal with Texas-Based Grassroots Carbon appeared first on Carbon Credits.

Tesla has reclaimed the global electric vehicle (EV) sales crown, overtaking BYD in early 2026. In the first quarter of 2026, Tesla delivered 358,023 EVs worldwide. This figure edged out BYD’s 310,389 EV deliveries, giving Tesla back the lead in pure battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales and sending stock slightly upward.

Tesla’s sales in this period rose about 6.3% year‑over‑year, showing a rebound from slower parts of 2025. This shift matters because the EV giant lost the annual global BEV sales lead in 2025.

Last year, BYD’s annual pure electric vehicle sales were higher than Tesla’s, largely due to China’s strong EV demand and policy changes.

The recent growth in Tesla’s sales shows high demand for its main models. The Model Y and Model 3 made up most of the deliveries in Q1 2026.

Battle of the EV Titans: Tesla vs. BYD

Competition between Tesla and BYD has become one of the defining stories in global EV markets.

BYD expanded rapidly over the past few years. It has a broad lineup of EVs and plug‑in hybrids and benefits from strong domestic sales in China. In 2025, BYD reported high sales growth as it strengthened its footprint outside China.

Tesla, by contrast, focuses on a narrower range of pure EVs but scales production efficiently. It has manufacturing plants in the United States, China, and Europe. These facilities help cut costs and serve major markets more quickly.

The rivalry pushes both companies to improve pricing, technology, and production capacity. Tesla’s price cuts in some markets and BYD’s aggressive growth have kept competition tight.

• SEE MORE: How BYD’s European Surge and Canada Deal Are Challenging Tesla’s EV Dominance

The EV Boom: Markets on Overdrive

The global EV market keeps growing strongly. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), electric car sales reached more than 17 million units globally in 2024. EVs made up more than 20% of total new car sales that year — up from earlier levels.

Data from the IEA’s Global EV Outlook 2025 shows that electric light‑duty vehicle sales are expected to reach about 40% of total vehicle sales by 2030 under current policy trends.

The stock of EVs on the road is also growing. The global EV fleet could expand to around 245 million vehicles by 2030 under stated policies.

Growth is strongest in China, Europe, and the United States. China remains the largest EV market, accounting for more than half of global EV sales in recent years.

Battery cost declines also fuel adoption. Average lithium‑ion battery prices have fallen significantly over the past decade, making electric vehicles more affordable. Governments around the world are also boosting EV uptake with incentives and stricter emissions standards.

Tesla’s Playbook: Scale, Tech, and Price Moves

Tesla’s return to the top reflects its focus on production scale and cost efficiency. The company has reduced vehicle prices in key markets to stay competitive. These price cuts helped increase demand, though they also put pressure on profit margins.

Elon Musk’s EV company continues to invest in manufacturing technology. Its “gigafactories” use advanced automation and large casting techniques to reduce production costs. Newer facilities in the U.S. and abroad help Tesla maintain output even as demand shifts.

The company is also developing next‑generation vehicles. These include plans for more affordable EV models designed to attract a wider range of buyers.

Tesla is expanding its energy business as well. This includes battery storage systems and solar products that align with the company’s broader clean energy goals.

Software remains a strength for Tesla. Features like over‑the‑air updates and driver assist systems add value for customers and differentiate Tesla’s vehicles from competitors.

Wall Street Watches, TSLA Reacts

Tesla’s stock, traded as TSLA, has shown volatility in response to sales news.

After Tesla’s delivery numbers in Q1 2026 showed the company regaining the BEV sales lead, its shares saw some short‑term gains. However, the stock has remained volatile. Broader concerns about pricing pressure, excess inventory, and competition have kept investor sentiment cautious.

In early 2026, shares pulled back after production exceeded deliveries and analysts noted weaker-than-expected margins. Tesla produced 408,386 vehicles in Q1 2026 but delivered 358,023, leaving some inventory unsold. This gap contributed to stock pressure.

Despite these swings, Tesla remains one of the highest‑valued automakers in the world. Its market capitalization continues to reflect expectations about future EV adoption and the company’s role in clean energy.

Market watchers note that Tesla’s ability to maintain leadership in BEV sales affects its valuation. Strong delivery figures help support confidence in Tesla’s long‑term strategy, even as competition increases.

Beyond sales and competition, Tesla’s EVs also play a key role in the global effort to reduce carbon emissions and fight climate change.

• RELEVANT: Tesla’s Carbon Credit Empire Faces a Shake-Up as Stellantis, Toyota, Subaru Exit EU Pool

EVs Fighting Climate Change, One Mile at a Time

Electric vehicles help cut carbon emissions from transport. Road transport is a major source of energy‑related emissions. In recent years, EVs made up more than 20% of global car sales, according to the IEA.

EVs reduce oil demand and lower emissions. The global EV fleet could rise to nearly 245 million vehicles by 2030 under stated policy scenarios, significantly displacing traditional gasoline and diesel cars.

As EV adoption grows, the carbon intensity of the electricity grid becomes more important. EVs charged with cleaner power produce larger net emission benefits.

Even with mixed grid emissions, EVs still reduce lifetime greenhouse gas output compared with internal combustion vehicles.

Governments around the world support EV adoption with stricter fuel standards, tax incentives, and expanded charging networks. These policies help ensure electric vehicles contribute to global decarbonization and climate goals.

Outlook: Growth, Competition, and Innovation

The EV market is expected to grow strongly in the coming years. Demand is supported by climate goals, advancing technology, and consumer interest in cleaner mobility.

Tesla’s return to the top in early 2026 shows that it remains a central player in the electric transition. Its focus on pure electric vehicles, global scale, and continuous innovation continues to fuel its position.

However, the gap between Tesla and competitors like BYD is narrowing. BYD’s strong EV growth, especially in China and expanding export markets, shows that competition remains intense.

Future leadership in the EV industry will depend on cost, technology, charging infrastructure, and the ability to scale production efficiently. Companies that balance these factors well will shape the next phase of the global EV market.

For now, Tesla’s rebound highlights both the rapid growth of the sector and the increasing intensity of competition among the world’s leading EV makers.

• READ MORE: Oil Shock Ignites Chinese EV Export Surge Around the World

The post Tesla Reclaims EV Sales Crown from BYD in Q1 2026, Heating Up the EV Race appeared first on Carbon Credits.