Aclara Energy is positioning its Chilean rare earth project for potential fast-tracking, citing favorable policy shifts expected under the incoming Chilean presidential administration. The company has already secured $120 million in U.S. funding for its Brazilian rare earth initiative, which remains ahead in development timeline.
- Aclara Energy’s Chilean rare earth project holds 180,000 metric tons of rare earth oxides (REO)
- $120 million in U.S. funding secured for Aclara’s Brazilian project in late 2025
- Chilean project could begin construction in mid-2027, with production by 2029
- Target output: 25,000 metric tons of REO per year at full capacity
- Expected policy support under Chile’s incoming presidential administration in March 2026
- Market analysts project up to 35% valuation increase if fast-tracking proceeds
Aclara Energy is advancing plans to expedite development of its rare earth deposit in northern Chile, anticipating a more supportive regulatory environment under the country’s next president, who assumes office in March 2026. The project, located in the Atacama Region near major lithium production hubs, holds an estimated 180,000 metric tons of rare earth oxides (REO), with high concentrations of neodymium and praseodymium—critical for clean energy and electric vehicle manufacturing. The company previously highlighted that its Brazilian project, located in Minas Gerais, is currently in advanced engineering and permitting phases, supported by a $120 million U.S. government-backed financing package secured in late 2025. Despite the Brazilian project’s more mature status, Aclara sees strategic advantages in accelerating the Chilean site, particularly due to proximity to existing mining infrastructure, skilled labor pools, and the potential for faster environmental and social impact assessments under a new administration expected to prioritize domestic critical mineral supply chains. The company has submitted updated feasibility studies to Chilean authorities and is in active dialogue with regional regulators to align with national mineral development goals. If approved, construction at the Chilean site could begin by mid-2027, with first production targeted for 2029. The project is projected to produce approximately 25,000 metric tons of REO annually at full capacity, contributing significantly to North American and European battery supply chains. Market analysts note that accelerated timelines could increase Aclara’s valuation by up to 35% over the next two years, particularly if the company secures long-term off-take agreements with major automakers or clean tech firms.