POLITICO Energy Meet the CEO leading the U.S. deep sea mining push
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May 27, 2025 Gerard Barron, CEO and Chair of The Metals Company, is at the forefront of deep sea mining—a field he believes is crucial for America's energy future. He tackles the intricate interplay of economic benefits and environmental concerns in this burgeoning industry. Barron discusses the Trump administration's mining ambitions and the complex permit process with U.S. regulatory agencies. He also sheds light on the competitive landscape with China and the potential for bipartisan support, all while emphasizing the necessity for critical minerals to meet clean energy goals.
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Prepare Vessels and Processing Early
- Companies should secure both mining vessels and processing facilities before beginning commercial deep sea mining.
- Barron suggested starting processing abroad and transitioning capacity to the U.S. long-term.
Trump's Nodules Fascination Anecdote
- Gerard Barron narrated his meetings with U.S. officials including the White House and National Security Council.
- He described how Trump was fascinated by a deep-sea nodule and its potential for job creation and new industries.
Deep Sea Mining Gains Bipartisan Support
- Barron expressed confidence that deep sea mining will gain bipartisan U.S. support.
- He emphasized environmental benefits of ocean nodules versus land mining in biodiverse tropical rainforests.