The goal is for both Prospect Global and Passport to get all required construction and environmental permitting and feasibility studies completed so except for final project finance everything is ready to proceed.

FORBES: How Arizona Is Helping America Reduce Dependence On Foreign Natural Resources

As I discussed in my overview of hydroelectric power in 2008, the main barriers to new hydroelectric facilities are complex environmental studies, permitting issues, and water laws.

FORBES: Administration Lays the Groundwork for Hydropower Boom

Best practices, including conducting permitting and other environmental review processes concurrently instead of sequentially, are expected to shave several months off project schedules.

WHITEHOUSE: The White House

Decades of pressure from environmental pressure groups have created our calcified permitting process.

FORBES: Forget the WTO: The Rare Earths Solution Is Right Here at Home