RB Energy meltdown highlights tough times for lithium, rare earth firms

Lionheart is a major lithium and renewable energy initiative located in the Upper Rhine Valley brine field.

Jimena Blanco, chief analyst at Verisk Maplecroft, says that geopolitical tensions are causing major shifts in global mining policies.

The company has yet to finish a feasibility study and expects to reach a final investment decision in the first half of next year.

The country plans to launch a commercial pilot program for direct extraction soon.