Winsome Resources reaches regulatory milestone for Adina Lithium Project in Québec

Winsome Resources, an Australian-based lithium exploration and development company, has submitted the Preliminary Information Statement (PIS) for its flagship Adina Lithium Mining Project to Québec’s regulatory authorities. This milestone initiates a well-defined provincial review process, marking significant progress in the permitting of the project located in the mineral-rich Eeyou Istchee James Bay region.

The submission to the Ministère de l’Environnement, de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques, de la Faune et des Parcs (MELCCFP) triggers the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) process. It sets the stage for further consultations with stakeholders, including the Cree Nation of Mistissini, whose traditional lands overlap with the project area.

Chris Evans, Winsome Resources’ Managing Director, expressed optimism about the project’s progression, emphasizing the benefits of the regulatory review for stakeholders. He noted that the process would “provide additional details on our development project based on extensive technical studies and foster collaboration to maximize community and economic benefits.”

What is the Adina Lithium Project, and Why is It Significant?

The Adina Lithium Mining Project is a tier-one hard rock spodumene deposit situated in one of the most mining-friendly jurisdictions in North America. Spanning over 20 years of anticipated production life, the project features near-surface lithium deposits with competitive operating costs.

In addition to Adina, Winsome Resources has acquired an exclusive option to purchase the Renard Operation, located approximately 60 kilometers south of Adina. The Renard site includes extensive infrastructure, such as a Dense Media Separation (DMS) plant, mineral sorting circuits, a power station, and a fully equipped camp. These facilities are expected to expedite Winsome’s pathway to lithium production while minimizing capital expenditures.

The acquisition of the Renard Operation not only bolsters Winsome’s operational capacity but also underscores its commitment to sustainability by utilizing existing facilities. As demand for lithium continues to surge, driven by the global transition to renewable energy and electric vehicles, the Adina project is well-positioned to contribute to Québec’s green energy future.

What Does the Regulatory Process Entail for the Adina Project?

The filing of the Preliminary Information Statement represents the initial phase of the ESIA process, as mandated by the Environmental Quality Act and Section 22 of the James Bay and Northern Québec Agreement. These regulations require that mining projects in the region undergo rigorous environmental and social evaluations to ensure sustainability and community alignment.

The ESIA process, managed by the Environmental and Social Impact Evaluating Committee (COMEV), will involve extensive studies to assess the project’s potential impacts. Winsome has already initiated baseline environmental studies, which began in mid-2023 with the involvement of local Cree contractors.

These studies cover a broad range of factors, including:

• Hydrology and water quality: Surface and groundwater conditions are being analyzed to ensure sustainable water use and environmental protection.
• Wildlife and vegetation: Assessments of local fauna, such as moose, caribou, and avian species, are ongoing alongside evaluations of wetland and forest ecosystems.
• Socioeconomic considerations: Efforts include analyzing the cultural and traditional land use of local communities, particularly the Cree Nation of Mistissini.

Data collected from these studies will form the backbone of the ESIA submission, guiding mitigation strategies to address environmental and community concerns.

How is Winsome Engaging with Local Stakeholders?

Community engagement remains a cornerstone of Winsome’s approach to project development. The company has prioritized transparency and collaboration with the Cree Nation of Mistissini and other stakeholders in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay region.

Geneviève Morinville, Winsome’s Vice President of Sustainability and Regulatory Affairs, highlighted the importance of these partnerships. She stated, “We are committed to developing a sustainable project that aligns with our company’s values while maximizing benefits for local communities. This includes creating jobs, providing training opportunities, and supporting skills development.”

Winsome’s engagement strategy focuses on building long-term relationships with Indigenous communities and addressing their concerns through open dialogue. These efforts aim to ensure the Adina project aligns with local traditions and contributes positively to regional development.

What’s Next for the Adina Project?

The Québec authorities will review the Preliminary Information Statement over the coming months to provide detailed guidelines for the next phase of the ESIA. These guidelines will outline the additional studies required to address environmental and social concerns.

Baseline data collection will continue throughout 2025 to ensure all necessary information is captured for provincial and federal regulatory processes. Winsome’s extensive dataset, bolstered by the operational history of the Renard site, places the company in a strong position to meet regulatory expectations and move toward project approval.

As global demand for lithium accelerates, Winsome Resources’ Adina project is poised to play a pivotal role in supporting the energy transition. The company’s sustainable development approach, combined with its operational expertise, underscores its potential to become a leading player in the North American lithium market.