The Metals Company Secures Certification for 122,000 km2 Nodule Exploration License
TMC•The Metals Company’s USA B exploration license application covering approximately 122,000 km2 of seafloor with an estimated 1.02 billion tonnes of polymetallic nodules has received formal certification, triggering the next regulatory phase. NOAA will now prepare an Environmental Impact Statement evaluating exploration activities before a final license determination.
1. License Application Certification
On May 28, 2026, TMC USA’s application for the USA B exploration license was formally certified, confirming compliance with the Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act and regulations. The certified area spans roughly 122,000 km2, positioning The Metals Company to advance seafloor exploration for critical metals.
2. Environmental Impact Statement Process
Following certification, NOAA will issue a Notice of Intent to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), draft and publish both the EIS and Terms, Conditions and Restrictions (TCRs) for public comment, and thereafter finalize the EIS to make a licensing decision.
3. Resource Estimates and Grades
Technical assessments indicate the USA B area holds about 1.02 billion tonnes of polymetallic nodules rich in nickel, cobalt, copper, manganese and several rare earth elements, underpinning the project’s potential to supply essential metals.
4. Strategic Implications for The Metals Company
This regulatory milestone advances TMC’s strategy to develop the largest known seafloor critical metals resource, supporting its goal of delivering lower-impact metals for energy, defense, manufacturing and infrastructure.
