Toronto-based Aclara has expanded its plans for the Louisiana rare-earth separation plant under Project Dynamo, now including yttrium, gadolinium, and samarium alongside previously announced elements like neodymium-praseodymium, dysprosium, and terbium. This move significantly increases the scale of the project, expected to bolster demand for industrial real estate, skilled labor, and heavy infrastructure in southwest Louisiana.

Aclara announced the expansion on October 6, revealing plans to increase the number of mixer-settlers from approximately 340 to about 478. This development comes as the company targets a groundbreaking for the facility in the first quarter of 2027, though financing is yet to be secured.

The facility, estimated at around $277 million, is planned near the Port of Vinton at Calcasieu Parish. Aclara has been advancing its work with the Virginia Tech demonstration plant, where new circuits are arriving to support the expanded scope. The project is projected to create approximately 140 direct jobs and produce about 1,400 tonnes of yttrium annually.

Aclara received a state air permit and is completing basic engineering for the project. Collaborations include activities with Argonne National Laboratory on AI and digital twin technologies, which are expected to streamline operations and training.

If successful in securing financing, Aclara aims for a significant foothold in industries such as aerospace, power generation, and AI infrastructure, affecting long-term commodity flows and industrial space demands in the region. The groundbreaking timeline will also influence local contractors and suppliers eager for opportunities related to the project.

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