Westwater Resources Advances Alabama Graphite Mine Plans
The company begins design studies as it eyes a June 2027 permitting completion for its Coosa graphite site.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Quantum Computing
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Westwater Resources has launched preliminary mine planning and design studies for the Coosa graphite mine in Alabama. The company also appointed Anne Duncan as general manager of the site, effective October 26, 2026.
Why it matters
This project aims to secure a domestic source of natural graphite feedstock for the company's Kellyton graphite plant. Accelerating the supply chain for battery materials remains a critical focus for U.S. energy independence.
The mine project is operating under the FAST-41 framework, an expedited federal environmental review process. Westwater Resources is currently evaluating the potential value of vanadium mineralization found within the project footprint.
The players
Westwater Resources
An energy materials company developing a vertically integrated natural graphite supply chain in Alabama.
Anne Duncan
The newly appointed general manager tasked with overseeing operations at the Coosa graphite mine.
The details
The mine planning process incorporates data from recently completed cultural-resource fieldwork within the project area. Development of the site is supported by several regulatory steps, including an NPDES permit application submitted in Q1 2026 and a Clean Water Act Section 404 application filed in June 2026. The company completed its required Endangered Species Act consultation ahead of the established FAST-41 timetable.
Timeline
Q1 2026: NPDES permit application submitted to ADEM.
June 2026: Section 404 permit and water-quality certification applications submitted.
October 26, 2026: Anne Duncan begins her role as general manager.
June 2027: Targeted completion date for the permitting process.
The Tech Race
The Coosa project follows the FAST-41 framework to expedite federal environmental reviews, a standard used to accelerate critical infrastructure. This initiative positions Westwater Resources to compete for domestic supply dominance as demand for battery-grade graphite scales.
The development directly affects the operational timeline for the Kellyton graphite plant in Alabama. Local stakeholders and industry partners should monitor the June 2027 permitting deadline for updates on project feasibility and scale.
The takeaway
The Coosa mine project marks a milestone in building a domestic graphite supply chain for U.S. manufacturing. Monitor the project's progress against the June 2027 target date to determine if the site hits its production milestones on schedule.
What happens next
Westwater Resources targets the completion of the formal permitting process by June 2027.
Further reading
Learn more about the state of domestic mineral supply chains on our Quantum Computing section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Engineering and Mining Journal (E&MJ).
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