Mineral processor ElementUSA says that it's planning to invest $850 million in a new rare earth refinery in Louisiana, as part of larger efforts to strengthen the country's critical mineral supply chains. 

According to a December 15 release from ElementUSA, the facility will be built in St. John Parish, and will also be supported by a $29.9 million grant from the Department of Defense. Once it's operational, the refinery will extract gallium, scandium, iron and other minerals used in advanced electronics from more than 30 million tons of bauxite residue, which will come from a neighboring aluminum processing facility.

"This project advances essential mineral production in the United States, and positions Louisiana’s workers and communities at the forefront of a rapidly growing industry," said Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry.

The facility is expected to create 200 new direct jobs in the Southeast, as well as an additional 554 indirect jobs. Construction on the refinery is scheduled to begin in 2027, with production targeted for the third quarter of 2028.