NioCorp Developments Ltd (NB)

Announced is not built

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/justas-valciukas-ba26272b2_the-us-has-announced-%F0%9D%9F%B0%F0%9D%9F%AC%F0%9D%9F%AC%F0%9D%9F%AC%F0%9D%9F%AC-tons-of-share-7478493962995970050-Bx_L/?utm_source=social_share_send&utm_medium=ios_app&rcm=ACoAAAcgj48BT9F7PUhNWxJ6hOp1KI16ThOcHBM&utm_campaign=copy_link

If you read through this AIR PERMIT application, it says that FOUR of the SIX natural gas engines will be used and TWO of them will be as backup engine units in case of any of the original four natural gas engines fail.

It also states in the application that ALL of this equipment, including the natural gas boiler, will be REMOVED before the mine goes into production.

There are maps of the locations this equipment will be installed in the application.

Let's just use the first line.

The project does not yet have full primary financing in place. The rest it irrelevant. In a few weeks maybe. The weird bullshit video signals otherwise. There is no next year for this.

I asked AI

“what would an underground mine with an above ground processing facility need 6 natural gas engines and 1 natural gas boiler for?”

***************
Such a configuration is a classic Combined Heat and Power (CHP) and Central Heating system. The 6 natural gas engines generate base-load electricity and recover waste heat, while the boiler acts as a secondary heat source to support heavy mineral processing, plant operations, and underground ventilation.

The specific purposes of this equipment include:Base-Load Power Generation (Engines): Six engines provide reliable, continuous baseload electricity. Operating on-site power is standard for isolating the mine from grid outages, particularly in remote regions where electricity delivery is unstable or expensive.
Waste Heat Recovery (Engines): The engines are typically part of a cogeneration system. Instead of exhausting heat into the atmosphere, heat exchangers capture thermal energy from the engine cooling water and exhaust. This hot water or steam is redirected to the site's heating demands.Underground Ventilation Heating: In cold Canadian climates underground mines require massive volumes of heated air forced into the shafts to prevent the working environment and utility water from freezing. Captured engine heat or direct boiler steam is used in large air intake heaters.Mineral/Ore Processing Operations:
The processing facility requires a steady supply of high-pressure steam and hot water for tasks such as leaching, autoclave operations, and froth flotation circuits in mineral separation.
Auxiliary Heating (Boiler):
The 1 natural gas boiler supplements the CHP system during peak winter demand, or when the engines are shut down for routine maintenance. It is also used to maintain facility water temperatures, de-icing pipelines, and for employee wash-houses.
Energy Cost Optimization: Using natural gas rather than grid electricity or diesel generally lowers operating costs, while the simultaneous production of both power and heat drastically increases overall energy efficiency.

Grok - Analysis for Elk Creek (NioCorp)

The project does not yet have full primary electrical power infrastructure in place for large-scale construction and eventual operations. Key points from project documents and updates:

Electrical Power — A new high-voltage transmission line and substation (by Omaha Public Power District) is planned, but this is a major infrastructure project that takes time. On-site distribution (44 kV and 13.8 kV) also needs to be built.

Natural Gas — NioCorp has a long-term contract and pipeline planned (via Tallgrass/Rockies Express) for process heat, drying, and other operations once the mine is running.

Construction Phase Power Needs — During early construction (portal development, site prep, underground development), reliable temporary power is required for equipment, ventilation, dewatering, lighting, etc.

6 Natural Gas Engines (Generators) would be a practical solution for:
Providing temporary on-site power generation while the permanent electrical grid connection is completed.
Offering redundancy and flexibility during the construction ramp-up.
Fueling with natural gas (once the pipeline spur is available) for cleaner and more cost-effective operation than diesel.

This is standard practice for large mining projects in areas with limited existing utility infrastructure — temporary gas-fired generators bridge the gap until permanent power is online.

Current Project Status Context
Portal construction has begun (as of early 2026).
Full construction financing (EXIM + equity) is still being finalized.
Environmental applications (like the recent DWEE/CP26-016 filing) often include details on temporary power sources, emissions, and fuel use.

If these engines are listed in the DWEE application or air permit documents, they are almost certainly temporary construction power generators.

DWEE stands for the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment.
DWEE is the state agency responsible for regulating water resources, energy development, and environmental protection in Nebraska.
Formed by a recent reorganization/merger of previous departments (it was previously known as NDEE — Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy — and earlier iterations).
The agency handles permitting, compliance, and enforcement for:
Air quality permits
Water quality / wastewater (NPDES permits)
Drinking water
Hazardous waste
Mining / industrial operations (including aspects of the Elk Creek project)
Energy projects

DWEE is the key state regulator for environmental approvals on the Elk Creek Critical Minerals Project. They review and issue permits related to construction, operations, air emissions, water use, and discharge. The public portal you linked (ecmp.nebraska.gov) is their system for tracking applications and documents.
Recent activity (as of late May/early June 2026) includes a new application from Elk Creek Resources Corp. for the mine (CP26-016), which DWEE is currently processing.
Website: dwee.nebraska.gov (or the older NDEE branding may still appear in some places).This is the primary state-level environmental authority you'll deal with for project updates on Elk Creek.

Thanks. I did get in and you are right about air permit being for a separate project on site other that the mine, Olsson applied for the permit.

The permit is for constructing, Six natural gas engines and 1 natural gas boiler
*****
Perhaps the engines and boiler are to be used in the crushing, separation and purifying stages?????

PutzMueler

It looks like a permit for a separate facility to me. Not part of the ESIA....hope that link works for you.

https://ecmp.nebraska.gov/PublicAccess/index.html?&MyQueryID=340

Try this one....facility 97622

The document provides a comprehensive overview of the air quality permit application process, project description, emission calculations, and regulatory compliance details for Elk Creek Resources Corporation's mine development project.Project Overview and PurposeThe document details the permit application for constructing and operating emission units at Elk Creek Mine in Nebraska.It includes project scope, construction activities, and the separation from previously permitted mine operations.The project involves installing natural gas engines, a boiler, and associated control devices to support mine development.The application emphasizes compliance with federal and state air quality standards and standards for specific emission units.Emission Units and Control TechnologiesSix natural gas spark-ignition engines will be installed, each equipped with catalytic oxidizers and SCR systems.One natural gas boiler will be used for LNG vaporization, with emissions calculated based on conservative emission factors.Control devices like catalytic oxidizers and SCR systems are designed to reduce pollutants such as NOx, CO, and formaldehyde.Emission control efficiencies are specified, with reductions of up to 99% for certain pollutants.Specification sheets and detailed emission calculations support the projected emission rates.Regulatory Standards and ComplianceThe project must adhere to NSPS Subpart JJJJ for engines and Subpart De for boilers.It is subject to NESHAP standards, including Subpart ZZZZ for engines and Subpart JJJJJJ for boilers.The application confirms that the units are area sources of HAPs and meet applicable standards.The project is not subject to PSD review but must comply with minor source regulations.Control devices are scoped to meet specific emission reduction requirements.Emission Calculations and Permitting LimitsPotential to emit (PTE) and actual emissions are calculated for criteria pollutants, HAPs, and GHGs.Emission factors are derived from EPA AP-42 data and vendor specifications.Calculations account for maximum operational hours, fuel usage, and control efficiencies.Emission summaries include lb/hr and ton/yr data for pollutants like NOx, CO, formaldehyde, and PM.The project aims to maintain minor source status by controlling emissions below thresholds.Air Quality Modeling and Impact AssessmentDispersion modeling is not required as net emissions are below significant impact levels.The project’s impact on ambient air quality standards has been evaluated and deemed acceptable.The application includes supporting dispersion modeling data and demonstrates compliance with NAAQS.Facility Description and Site LayoutThe project site is located at the corner of Highway 50 and 62 in Johnson County, Nebraska.Site development includes construction of support buildings, LNG storage tanks, and mine portal excavation.Site maps and process flow diagrams are provided to illustrate equipment layout and process flow.Fugitive emissions from haul roads and fuel delivery activities are considered in the analysis.The site layout emphasizes safety, property boundaries, and public access restrictions.Fuel Use and Emission Control EquipmentNatural gas is the primary fuel for engines and boilers, with specified maximum capacities and sulfur content.Control equipment like catalytic oxidizers and SCR systems are installed to reduce specific pollutants.Control efficiencies are detailed, with some units achieving over 95% reduction.Fuel specifications, operating limitations, and fuel usage data are documented for compliance.Additional fuel types and control devices are addressed in supplementary documentation.Application Process and DocumentationThe application includes detailed forms, emission summaries, site diagrams, and control device descriptions.Supporting documentation such as specification sheets, emission calculations, and modeling data are attached.The process emphasizes completeness, accuracy, and adherence to federal and state regulations.The application process involves multiple steps, including fee submission, site description, and regulatory review.The document underscores the importance of timely submission and compliance with all permit requirements.

ge11 I can’t get in and look at the full report, is it for the air permit? It does state click on air permit, but I thought once construction was started we did not need to apply again.

Also is DWEE the new NDEE for air permitting,

Or is this part of an ESIA application

He said a few weeks several days ago. Went 0 for 3 in 2nd quarter but hey maybe they do have a solid capex figure and we just don't know it.

Soooo When will NioCorp release the feasibility study? Management already has egg in the face for missing yet again another time line.

Great find ge11, I asked AI

The Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment (DWEE) handles various project approvals and environmental assessments (often referred to as an ESIA or Environmental Assessment).

This is good news

I asked AI

The Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment (DWEE) handles various project approvals and environmental assessments (often referred to as an ESIA or Environmental Assessment).

Ok im glad to hear that. Never know these days.

Don’t worry, I’m perfectly OK physically, mentally and financially.

I no longer dream NB PPS to $20 when ExIm loan is approved now.

Is that an ESIA application? for EXIM “pending” Eom

Full application on NDEE website

Anderson, Brendan
From: Anderson, Brendan
Sent: Tuesday, May 26, 2026 2:51 PM
To: Arnold, Matthew; Jim Timmons
Cc: West, Pati
Subject: <Application Received> Elk Creek Resources Corp, Elk Creek Mine (CP26-016) #
97622/097-00022
Good afternoon,
DWEE has received your application.
DWEE is conducting the application completeness determination at this time. As prescribed in Title 129,
Chapter 1, Section 002.27:
"Complete" means, in reference to an application for a permit, that the application contains all the
information necessary for processing the application. Designating an application complete for
purposes of permit processing does not preclude the Department from requesting or accepting
any additional information.
DWEE determines application completeness in two phases: administrative and technical completeness.
Your application will not be considered complete until those phases are appropriately processed.
You will receive an email notification from DWEE regarding the status of the application.
As a reminder, you can track the progress of your application by accessing the DWEE's website main
page (https://dwee.nebraska.gov/), scroll to the left using the arrow icon until you find "Pending
Application Status Reports", click on the "Air Construction Permit Application Status Report" link. The
report generally gets updated on a weekly basis.
Thank you,
Brendan Anderson
Administrative Specialist
Direct: (402) 471-3848 | brendan.anderson@nebraska.gov
Nebrask

OT: PPTA got my attention, with ExIm loan yet PPS is down to around $21.

Not a NR. Thats what I mean. Some Bullshit video in lieu of a news release. Oh well still only 1 week into a "few".

We already knew about the improved recoveries. This scabbed together video is not needed, unless they need to make some more noise for the month because they know they dont have anything else on deck.

Pretty sure he was sarcastically saying that it's in place of "the monthly PR," not that it's related to any actual PR.

Well, I didn’t say anything about a news release only that there was a new video that I couldn’t post, so my apologies for weighing in

My question is with regard to the alleged PR/news release.

Google search NioCorp YouTube

It’s the video on top. Has yesterday as when it was posted.
Could be somebody else’s YouTube page I suppose

Montag: Where are you seeing or finding this PR to which you referred? I cannot find any PR or news release put out by NioCorp yesterday from any of the sources where its PR's are found, including its website that posts every PR/new release. And those of us on the shareholder e-mail list always receive an e-mail with each news release/PR and I have not received anything.

That is pathetic.

Pretty sure only people with access can post a video on a company YouTube site.

This looks like the original story and link to the video. The story and the comments are from 2023, but what appears to be trimmed clip, is from yesterday?

https://northeast.newschannelnebraska.com/story/49051229/niocorp-reports-high-recovery-rates-for-magnetic-rare-earths

Sad thing is, even if it was brand new it would still be garbage given the current product suite and the actual news the NB project waiting on. Its garbage squared. 🤷‍♂️🤦‍♂️

I forgot they had a website on youtube. Could it be the buyer of the options knew something was coming and then was served that three year old garbage for his appetizer. Most expensive appetizer in history. Wait and see if they offer for the main course.

Who is in charge of that? I cannot believe they have to resort to old videos to drum up support. Reserve judgement until I see if the video is dropped.

It was posted on the NioCorp YouTube page yesterday.

https://www.youtube.com/c/NioCorpDevelopments

PutzMueler did you notice what is over Mark's left shoulder in this video????

If what you are saying is true, please tell me that was not issued by the company.

Unfortunately, that video appears to be a clip of one posted years ago. There are no current federal tax incentives for EVs and the comments are dated, despite it showing yesterday's date. Too late to edit, so going to ask that it be reomved.

Well there's your monthly PR in lieu of financing advancements. Good neat news but not at all what we needed to drop. Into the red we go.

We have demonstrated a high recovery rate for something not yet on the books. Good news. Yay.

That last paragraph says that "a few weeks" was more bullshit.

It sure is alot of money. The expectations are also risks. I remember a while back someone bought A LOT of warrants with a near expiration date around the time something good was expected to drop. Didn't happen but whoever did that probably had the money to risk like this entity probably also has.

I forgot about Landmark. He was a good guy that I believe either lived off the coast of Washington or was hiding out in Thailand.

I find it strange that someone would purchase almost 16,000 calls with an expiring date this month unless they were either protecting a short position or expecting a July 4 Mark Smith present for shareholders. A lot of money to piss away.

Can someone post the new video regarding our rare earth 22 hours ago I can’t seem to post it

You will need to lower your next buying price if the next few weeks turn into the next few months.

I wonder if they were planning on releasing capex by itself or only with the public release of the FS. It would be nice to know if that particular step has been completed.

Which month? And explain your forecast please.

Trading down for the month, my next area to buy is $4.35 . but I still hold a good sum of shares if something brakes loose .

https://www.insidermonkey.com/blog/5-best-rare-earth-stocks-to-buy-in-2026-1792186/5/

Thank you for that information Richard.

I wonder if they even have new capex numbers yet to be input into the rest of the deliverables. 🤔

Im sure those values are not needed for the traxys contract or the FS. Then it will quietly squeak out later that it is actually needed. The implications of that new figure adds to the risk.

Unusual options activity, seams a bit bullish. Idk.we will soon see.

https://www.reddit.com/r/NIOCORP_MINE/s/ExK4n5Tdj0

Wait its all a grift.....always has been.

At least its tungsten.

My optimistic thoughts are that people are positioning for what is hopefully a great next quarter for us and then their portfolios come bonus time.