DLE Weekly delivers the latest insights on Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) technologies, industry developments, and market trends. Stay tuned to see how DLE is shaping the future of sustainable energy.
DLE Weekly - 27 December 2024
by Zoe Wang, Global Business, BICHEM Group
Zimbabwe Seeks 26% Stake in Mining
Zimbabwe intends to acquire a 26% of new mining projects on a free carry basis. The intention aims to enhance national control and participation in mineral resource development, fostering sustainable growth in the mining sector while ensuring greater economic benefits for the nation.
Centenario Plant in Argentina Produces First Lithium Carbonate
On December 26, Eramet announced the successful production of the first batch of lithium carbonate at its Centenario plant in Salta Province, Argentina. The achievement comes less than three years after construction began. The Centenario-Ratones salt flat boasts extractable mineral resources exceeding 15 million tons of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE), with an average lithium concentration of 407 mg/L.
Canada Provides Up to $70 Million for a Lithium Project
Export Development Canada (EDC) has committed up to approximately $70 million in financing for the Seymour Lake lithium project, located in northwestern Ontario. Operated by Australia’s Green Technology Metals, this project has the potential to become the province’s first lithium-producing mine.
A Joint Venture for Thacker Pass Lithium Mine Is Finalized
Lithium Americas has finalized a joint development agreement with General Motors (GM) for the Thacker Pass lithium mine in Nevada. As part of the deal, GM will invest $625 million for a 38% stake in the project. This collaboration provides a significant boost to the Thacker Pass project, following the approval of a $2.26 billion loan from the U.S. government.
A Triple Environmental Licence for a Brazilian Mine Is Secured
Sigma Lithium has secured a triple environmental licence for its Barreiro mine—Operational Permit (LO), Preliminary Permit (LP), and Installation Permit (LI). Located in Brazil, Barreiro is the company’s second mine and will supply raw materials for its green technology plant. The company has also achieved stable monthly shipments, reaching its goal of 270,000 tons of green lithium annually.
An Investment of $48 Million in a Canadian Lithium Miner
Patriot Battery Metals announced that Volkswagen Finance Luxemburg S.A., a subsidiary of Volkswagen Group, will invest approximately $48 million. Under the agreement, the company will supply 100,000 tons of spodumene concentrate annually (target grade of 5.5% Li₂O) for 10 years. This volume is expected to account for 25% of the estimated output from Phase 1 or 12.5% of the combined output from Phases 1 and 2 of the company’s Shaakichiuwaanaan lithium project in Quebec, Canada.
Global Lithium Supply Is Expected to Grow by 16% in 2025
In Australia, low lithium prices have delayed the development of some lithium mining projects, and certain high-cost mines may suspend operations. Meanwhile, direct lithium extraction (DLE) projects in South America are performing better. Global lithium demand is expected to rise by 26% in 2025, reaching 1.46 million tons of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE). Thanks to the successful adoption of DLE technologies, lithium supply is anticipated to grow by 16%, increasing from 1.36 million tons in 2024 to 1.58 million tons in 2025.
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