E3 Lithium and Pure Lithium Collaborate to Revolutionize Lithium Metal Battery Production

E3 Lithium

Canadian lithium developer E3 Lithium and innovative battery manufacturer Pure Lithium have signed an agreement to push the boundaries of lithium metal battery production. The two companies will design a lithium metal anode and battery pilot plant near Calgary, Alberta, leveraging lithium concentrate produced by E3.

Simplifying Lithium Battery Production

The partnership aims to evaluate the technical and economic feasibility of a full-scale lithium metal battery facility located adjacent to lithium production sites in Alberta. By merging Pure Lithium’s brine-to-battery technology with E3’s lithium brines and concentrate production, the collaboration seeks to eliminate the need for a lithium salt intermediary, streamlining the battery production process.

The companies have been working together since mid-2022, achieving a major milestone when Pure Lithium produced a lithium metal battery using E3’s lithium concentrate.

A Vision for Vertical Integration

Once the pilot project is complete, the facility is expected to produce 200kg of lithium metal anodes for lithium metal vanadium rechargeable batteries. If successful, this collaboration could lead to the development of the world’s first vertically integrated lithium metal battery technology, a groundbreaking achievement in the energy storage sector.

Driving Innovation in Alberta

This partnership could position Alberta as a hub for sustainable lithium battery production, with implications for the global battery market. As demand for high-performance batteries rises, this innovative approach could significantly impact the future of energy storage solutions.

E3 Lithium and Pure Lithium Join Forces to Revolutionize Battery Production in Canada

In a move set to redefine the landscape of battery manufacturing, Canadian lithium developer E3 Lithium has entered into a collaboration with battery manufacturer Pure Lithium. The two companies have signed an agreement to advance the design and development of a cutting-edge lithium metal anode and battery pilot plant in Canada.

This new facility, to be located near Calgary, Alberta, will leverage lithium concentrate produced by E3 Lithium, utilizing it in the creation of a lithium metal anode—a critical component for next-generation batteries. The partnership aims to explore the technical and economic feasibility of establishing a commercial-scale lithium metal battery facility in proximity to Alberta's rich lithium production sites.

By integrating Pure Lithium's innovative brine-to-battery technology with E3’s established lithium brines and concentrate production, the collaboration seeks to streamline the battery production process by eliminating the need for a lithium salt intermediary. This simplification could lead to more efficient and cost-effective battery manufacturing.

E3 Lithium and Pure Lithium have been collaborating since mid-2022, during which time Pure Lithium successfully produced a lithium metal battery using E3’s lithium concentrate. The upcoming pilot project will be a significant step towards commercial production, with plans to potentially scale up to produce 200kg of lithium metal anodes for advanced lithium metal vanadium rechargeable batteries.

If the pilot proves successful, the companies intend to pursue the development of the world’s first vertically integrated lithium metal battery technology, setting a new standard in the global battery industry.

Sigma Lithium Surpasses Q4 Production Target, Plans Major Expansion in Brazil

Sigma Lithium

Sigma Lithium has outperformed its fourth-quarter production target, producing approximately 75,000 metric tonnes (t) of lithium concentrate, well above its expected 60,000t. The Canadian lithium miner’s total 2024 output reached 240,000t, positioning it as one of the leading players in the global lithium market.

Looking ahead, Sigma expects to exceed its 2025 production guidance of 270,000t of lithium concentrate from its Greentech lithium beneficiation plant in Brazil, reinforcing its strategy to expand output amid growing demand for battery-grade lithium.

Ambitious Expansion Plans to Boost Lithium Supply

Sigma Lithium is aggressively increasing its lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) capacity, aiming to reach 125,000t LCE annually by 2026. With a conversion ratio of 7.4t of lithium concentrate per 1t of LCE, this expansion aligns with the company’s goal of securing a stronger foothold in the electric vehicle (EV) battery supply chain.

The company’s expansion plan includes:

• Phase 2 expansion: Commissioning in 2025, adding 34,000t LCE/yr (equivalent to 250,000t lithium concentrate annually).

• Phase 3 expansion: Scheduled for 2026, increasing capacity by 54,000t LCE/yr (equivalent to 400,000t lithium concentrate annually).

These expansions are set to enhance Sigma's role as a key lithium supplier, further contributing to the global energy transition and EV battery material demand.

Conclusion

With record-breaking lithium production in 2024 and an aggressive capacity expansion strategy, Sigma Lithium is on track to become a dominant force in the lithium market. As demand for EV batteries and renewable energy storage continues to rise, Sigma’s increased production capacity will play a vital role in meeting the world’s growing lithium needs.

Pure Lithium Partners with Saint-Gobain to Accelerate Lithium-Metal Battery Membranes

Saint-Gobain

Strategic Collaboration Aims to Advance Next-Generation Battery Technology

US-based battery innovator Pure Lithium has partnered with Saint-Gobain Ceramics to accelerate the production of lithium-metal battery membranes. This collaboration leverages Saint-Gobain’s advanced manufacturing capabilities to commercialize cutting-edge battery separator membranes, a crucial component in next-generation lithium-metal batteries.

Boosting Lithium-Metal Anode Development

Pure Lithium will use Saint-Gobain’s production capacity and R&D expertise to scale up its membrane technology. These membranes enable the electrodeposition of lithium onto substrates to form high-performance lithium-metal anodes or function as separators within battery cells. This advancement aims to enhance energy density and battery efficiency, meeting the increasing demand for high-performance energy storage solutions.

Collaboration with E3 Lithium on Lithium-Vanadium Batteries

As part of its expansion strategy, Pure Lithium is developing a lithium-metal anode in partnership with Canadian lithium developer E3 Lithium. This initiative aligns with the company’s vision to introduce lithium metal-vanadium batteries, incorporating vanadium-based cathode materials to improve battery longevity and stability.

Paving the Way for Next-Generation Energy Storage

The partnership with Saint-Gobain Ceramics and collaboration with E3 Lithium position Pure Lithium as a key player in the future of lithium-metal battery technology. These efforts support the transition towards higher-performance energy storage for EVs, grid storage, and portable electronics.

Patriot Battery Becomes Major Shareholder in Loyal Lithium Following Hidden Lake Deal

Patriot Battery Metals

Strategic Shift Consolidates Canadian Lithium Assets Amid Volkswagen Offtake Agreement

Loyal Lithium has acquired full ownership of the Hidden Lake Lithium Project by absorbing its joint venture partner, Patriot Battery Metals, as a key shareholder. The project, previously split 60/40 between Loyal Lithium and Patriot, is now fully controlled by Loyal following a share-based transaction.

The Hidden Lake Project is located in the Yellowknife Lithium Belt in Canada's Northwest Territories, a region rich in spodumene-bearing lithium dykes. By consolidating ownership, Loyal Lithium strengthens its strategic position in North America's growing lithium supply chain.

Patriot's New Role and the Volkswagen Deal

In exchange for its 40% stake, Patriot Battery Metals received shares in Loyal Lithium, becoming a significant equity holder. This move aligns with Patriot's broader growth strategy, including its 10-year offtake agreement signed in December 2024 with Volkswagen. The deal secures the supply of 100,000 metric tonnes of spodumene concentrate annually, underscoring the increasing demand for battery-grade lithium.

This partnership enhances Patriot’s downstream reach while giving Loyal Lithium operational control over a key asset.

Loyal Expands Lithium Footprint Across North America

Beyond Hidden Lake, Loyal Lithium is advancing three additional lithium projects in Canada and the United States. Notably, its Brisk Project in Quebec's James Bay Lithium District is strategically located along the same geological trend as Patriot’s Shaakichiuwaanaan Project. This regional proximity may present further collaborative opportunities between the two companies.

As demand for lithium continues to surge, Loyal and Patriot’s repositioning reflects a growing trend of consolidation and strategic realignment within the lithium exploration sector.

Prairie Lithium Project Receives Saskatchewan's First Commercial Production Approval

Arizona Lithium

Prairie Lithium Project achieved a historic milestone by securing Phase 1 production approval from Saskatchewan's Ministry of Energy and Resource. Arizona Lithium's Prairie Lithium Project represents Saskatchewan's inaugural lithium brine operation to reach commercial authorization, establishing the 390,000-acre facility as a pioneer in North America's direct lithium extraction sector.

Direct Lithium Extraction Technology Powers Commercial Operations

Prairie Lithium Project utilizes advanced direct lithium extraction (DLE) technology to produce 150 metric tonnes annually of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE). The commercial-scale DLE unit extracts lithium from underground brine deposits located approximately 2.3 kilometers below surface in Saskatchewan's Williston Basin. This innovative approach eliminates traditional evaporation pond requirements while significantly reducing environmental footprint.

Meanwhile, Arizona Lithium enhanced the project's resource profile with indicated resources increasing to 4.6 million tonnes LCE from 4.5 million tonnes. Producible capacity expanded dramatically by 120% to 17,000 tonnes per year LCE, demonstrating substantial scalability beyond initial Phase 1 operations. The resource upgrade reinforces the project's long-term commercial viability.

Williston Basin Location Provides Strategic Advantages

However, the Prairie Lithium Project benefits from its strategic position within Saskatchewan's established Williston Basin infrastructure. This region's historical oil and gas development provides essential advantages including transportation networks, skilled workforce availability, and regulatory expertise in subsurface resource extraction. The existing industrial base significantly reduces development costs and accelerates implementation timelines.

Therefore, the project's location leverages decades of hydrocarbon industry infrastructure investment while transitioning toward critical minerals production. Saskatchewan's stable regulatory environment and established permitting processes facilitated the milestone approval, demonstrating provincial commitment to diversifying the resource economy beyond traditional energy sectors.

North American Lithium Supply Chain Implications

Furthermore, the production approval addresses growing automotive industry demand for secure North American lithium sources. Electric vehicle manufacturers increasingly seek supply chain diversification away from geopolitically sensitive regions while ensuring reliable battery materials access. The Prairie Lithium Project contributes to this strategic objective through domestic Canadian production capacity.

As a result, Saskatchewan's entry into commercial lithium production could catalyze additional development across the broader Williston Basin region. The regulatory pathway established through Arizona Lithium's approval provides a template for other developers pursuing similar brine-based extraction projects throughout North America's emerging lithium corridors.

The Metalnomist Commentary

The Prairie Lithium Project's production approval marks a transformative moment for North American critical minerals supply chain development, showcasing how direct lithium extraction can unlock previously inaccessible brine resources in established industrial basins. Saskatchewan's emergence as a lithium producer leverages existing infrastructure while positioning Canada as a strategic battery materials supplier for the continental electric vehicle transition.

Lithium Ionic Brazil Lithium Resources Grow by Nearly One-Third in Latest Estimate

Lithium Ionic Mining

Canadian miner upgrades Bandeira project to 901,000 tonnes LCE as Brazil’s Lithium Valley gains momentum

Feasibility study update and 2026 production plan reaffirm long-term potential of Minas Gerais spodumene assets

Lithium Ionic Brazil lithium resources have grown significantly, with the Canadian company increasing its estimate for the Bandeira project by nearly 33%. The project now holds 27.2 million tonnes of lithium oxide, equivalent to 901,000 tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE), according to the company’s latest technical assessment.

Successive resource upgrades reinforce investor confidence in Brazil’s Lithium Valley

This marks the third resource upgrade in just 13 months, following 15% and 30% increases in April and May 2024. Lithium Ionic also announced the potential to add another 615,432 tonnes of inferred LCE, indicating untapped upside across its broader lithium footprint. The updated resource base will be included in a revised feasibility study due in the second half of 2025.

Located in Minas Gerais, the Bandeira project lies at the heart of Brazil’s emerging Lithium Valley, a rapidly developing spodumene hub attracting global mining attention. Lithium Ionic plans to produce its first lithium concentrate batch in the second half of 2026, positioning itself as a key supplier to the EV and battery storage markets.

Regional consolidation includes Baixa Grande and Itinga project areas

Beyond Bandeira, Lithium Ionic holds 42,000 acres of mineral rights, including the nearby Baixa Grande and Itinga projects. These assets provide additional scalability for long-term operations, giving the company a strong strategic position in Latin America’s lithium supply chain. The expansion of Lithium Ionic Brazil lithium resources supports both near-term production targets and future growth potential.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Lithium Ionic’s resource expansion confirms Brazil’s strategic role in global lithium supply. As production timelines align with downstream EV demand, Latin America continues to draw investor interest as a sustainable, diversified alternative to Asia-dominated supply chains.

Winsome Resources Files Plans for Adina Lithium Project in Quebec

Winsome Resources

Canadian Lithium Developer Moves Forward with Spodumene Production Plans

Winsome Resources, a Canadian lithium explorer and developer, has submitted its Preliminary Information Statement (PIS) for the Adina Lithium Project. Located 500 miles north of Quebec City in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay region, the project has reached a key permitting milestone. The plan outlines the development of a lithium mine at Adina, as well as the modification of the Renard Operations processing plant, located 40 miles south, to produce spodumene concentrates.

The Adina project is expected to produce 255,900 metric tons of spodumene concentrate with a 5.5% Li2O content over the life of the mine. The all-in sustainable cost is projected at $716 per ton. This plan aims to boost Canada’s role in lithium supply, supporting the growing electric vehicle (EV) and renewable energy industries.

Quebec’s authorities will review the PIS and provide guidelines for filing the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) in the coming months. While production start dates were not disclosed, these steps are essential for the project’s advancement.

Canada’s E3 Lithium Secures $4.7M from CMIF to Advance Clearwater Project

E3 Lithium

Federal Funding Supports DLE-Based Lithium Development in Alberta

E3 Lithium, a Canadian lithium exploration and development company, has secured up to $4.7 million in federal support from the Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund (CMIF) to accelerate its flagship Clearwater Project.

This investment will fund critical infrastructure development aimed at extracting battery-grade lithium hydroxide using Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) technology.

The Clearwater project, located in Alberta’s Leduc reservoir, is expected to produce 32,250 metric tonnes per year of lithium hydroxide once commercialized. The funding from CMIF will reimburse 50% of eligible costs incurred by E3, with the total capped at $4.7 million.

This milestone marks a strong endorsement of E3’s DLE approach, which offers a cleaner, faster, and more scalable alternative to traditional lithium mining methods.

CMIF Supports Canada’s Critical Mineral Supply Chain Strategy

The CMIF is a cornerstone of Canada’s federal strategy to strengthen domestic supply chains for critical minerals, including lithium, nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements.

The fund plans to distribute up to $1.5 billion by 2030, backing projects that align with clean energy goals and national electrification efforts.

E3’s project is among the first to receive this support and reflects the growing focus on low-carbon extraction technologies in the North American lithium market.

By tapping into Alberta’s brine reservoirs, the Clearwater Project reduces land disruption while contributing to the secure and sustainable sourcing of EV battery materials.

As global competition for critical minerals intensifies, Canada’s domestic production of high-purity lithium will play a vital role in supplying future battery value chains.

Critical Elements Lithium Secures Funding Interest for Rose Li-Ta Project

Critical Elements Lithium

Canadian company may receive up to $115 million to advance its Quebec-based lithium-tantalum project.

Critical Elements Lithium, a Canadian-based company, has received significant funding interest for its Rose Lithium-Tantalum project located in northern Quebec. The funding, potentially amounting to $115 million, was offered through a support letter from a leading Canadian financial institution. The support letter outlines the institution’s interest in providing long-term debt financing for the project, marking a crucial step toward advancing the company’s operations.

Rose Lithium-Tantalum Project Overview

The Rose project, situated in Eeyou Istchee James Bay, northern Quebec, is poised to become a major player in the lithium and tantalum markets. Critical Elements plans to produce 203,765 metric tonnes per year of spodumene concentrates and 580 tonnes of tantalite concentrates. These materials are essential for various industries, particularly in the production of electric vehicle batteries and electronic components, highlighting the project's strategic importance in the global supply chain for critical minerals.

A Promising Future for Critical Elements Lithium

With this potential funding, Critical Elements Lithium is positioned to accelerate its development efforts and continue advancing the Rose project. This move aligns with the growing demand for lithium and tantalum, driven by the shift toward renewable energy and electric vehicles. The project’s success could not only bolster Canada’s standing in the global minerals market but also help secure a more sustainable future by providing essential materials for green technologies.

Conclusion

The potential for up to $115 million in funding marks a significant milestone for Critical Elements Lithium. As the Rose Lithium-Tantalum project moves forward, it stands to contribute significantly to Canada’s resource-based economy while supporting the global transition to renewable energy.

GEMC Eyes Stake in Alberta Lithium Project

Global Energy Metals Corporation

Global Energy Metals Moves to Acquire 19.9% Interest in Peace River Lithium Project

Global Energy Metals Corporation (GEMC), a Canadian critical mineral exploration and development company, has taken a significant step toward expanding its lithium portfolio. The company recently signed a non-binding letter of intent with NeoLithica to acquire a stake in the Peace River lithium project in Alberta, Canada.

Details of the Agreement and the Peace River Project

The agreement gives GEMC an 18-month option to purchase a 19.9% interest in the Peace River lithium project for C$1.5 million, a combination of cash and shares. This potential acquisition marks a significant move by GEMC as it seeks to secure a stake in one of Canada’s promising lithium projects.

Located approximately 500 km northwest of Edmonton, the Peace River lithium project is a lithium brine deposit. The project has an inferred resource estimate of 10 million metric tonnes (mt) of lithium carbonate equivalent. The deposit is seen as a significant resource in Canada’s growing lithium sector, essential for the production of battery-grade lithium compounds used in electric vehicle (EV) batteries.

Future Plans for the Peace River Lithium Project

NeoLithica, the project’s developer, is planning to commission a preliminary assessment following the completion of demonstration pilots in early 2025. The aim is to convert the extracted lithium concentrate into battery-grade lithium compounds, which is key to meeting the growing demand for lithium in the energy transition and EV industries.

With the global push for cleaner energy and the demand for EVs, lithium projects like the Peace River lithium deposit are increasingly seen as crucial to the future of energy storage and transportation. GEMC’s involvement in the project could strengthen its position in the critical minerals sector, particularly as lithium remains in high demand due to its role in battery technologies.

Seymour Lithium Project Secures C$100 Million Boost from Export Development Canada

Green Technology Metals

Green Technology Metals, a prominent Canadian lithium developer, has announced a significant financial endorsement for its Seymour Lithium Project, receiving a letter of interest for up to C$100 million ($70 million) from Export Development Canada (EDC). This funding underscores the project's potential in contributing to the global lithium supply chain, crucial for battery production.

Strategic Financial Support for Lithium Production

The financial backing from EDC, a governmental body known for supporting Canadian exporters with financing solutions, is a major milestone for the Seymour Lithium Project based in Ontario, Canada. Set to commence production of spodumene concentrate in 2026, the project has already solidified a strategic partnership through a five-year offtake agreement with LG Energy Solution, a leading South Korean battery manufacturer. Under this agreement, LG Energy Solution will purchase 25% of the project's spodumene concentrate output, highlighting the international confidence in the venture and its significance in the battery materials market.

Impact on the Lithium Market and Future Outlook

The investment from EDC not only facilitates the advancement of the Seymour project but also signals strong governmental support for initiatives that are pivotal in the transition to renewable energy resources. This move is aligned with global efforts to enhance lithium production capabilities, essential for meeting the burgeoning demand for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage solutions.

Volkswagen Secures Long-Term Lithium Supply with Patriot Battery Metals

Patriot Battery Metals

Volkswagen, through its battery subsidiary PowerCo, has sealed a decade-long offtake agreement with Patriot Battery Metals, a Canadian lithium explorer, to source 100,000 metric tonnes per year (t/yr) of spodumene concentrate (SC). This deal is a strategic move to secure critical lithium resources as Volkswagen continues to expand its electric vehicle (EV) and battery production globally.

Patriot’s Shaakichiuwaanaan Asset Powers the Deal

The spodumene concentrate will be supplied from Patriot's Shaakichiuwaanaan Mineral Resources in Quebec, Canada. Notably, this resource is the largest lithium pegmatite deposit in the Americas and the eighth-largest globally, making it a vital supply chain asset for lithium-ion battery production. The concentrate will have a target grade of 5.5% lithium oxide, ideal for battery applications.

PowerCo plans to use the raw materials to fuel its gigafactories in Europe and North America, including its St. Thomas, Canada facility, which is set to be its largest cell factory, boasting a production capacity of up to 90 GWh per year.

Volkswagen Invests in Patriot and Future Lithium Conversion

As part of the partnership, Volkswagen has invested $48 million for a 9.9% stake in Patriot Battery Metals, signaling its commitment to long-term lithium sourcing. The deal also hints at future collaborations, including the potential development of a lithium conversion facility to ensure supply chain resilience and further vertical integration.

Volkswagen’s EV Push Faces Challenges

Volkswagen has delivered 506,500 battery electric vehicles (BEVs) globally from January to September 2024, a 4.7% decline year on year. Despite overall growth in North America, BEV deliveries in the US fell by 26%, reflecting competitive challenges in the region.

In Europe, Volkswagen remains dominant with a 19% market share in the BEV segment, reaffirming its stronghold. To bolster its EV ecosystem, the German automaker also formed a $5.8 billion joint venture with Rivian in November 2024 to advance software and electronics architectures for scalable EV platforms.

Strategic Significance

This agreement underscores the importance of securing stable, long-term access to critical minerals like lithium as automakers ramp up EV production. It also highlights Canada’s growing role as a key player in the global battery supply chain, thanks to its abundant natural resources and strategic partnerships with major manufacturers like Volkswagen.

Equinor and Standard Lithium Secure $225 Million for US Lithium Extraction Project

Equinor

Norwegian energy giant Equinor and Canadian firm Standard Lithium have received a $225 million grant from the US Department of Energy (DOE). The grant aims to establish a commercial-scale direct lithium extraction (DLE) facility in Arkansas, a critical step toward enhancing domestic lithium carbonate production.

The facility is part of the companies' joint South West Arkansas (SWA) project. Funds will specifically support constructing a processing plant designed to produce lithium carbonate, a key component in battery manufacturing.

Production Timeline and Capacity

Equinor and Standard Lithium anticipate making a final investment decision on the SWA project by the end of 2025. Once approved, the project's first phase of production is set to begin in 2028. Upon completion, the facility will boast an annual production capacity of 45,000 tonnes of lithium carbonate, significantly boosting the US lithium supply chain for battery production.

Rising Interest in Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE)

Direct lithium extraction has become increasingly attractive due to its environmental and operational advantages over traditional brine evaporation methods. Despite brine reservoirs containing approximately 60% of global lithium reserves, conventional evaporation processes only contribute about 35% of lithium production. DLE technology offers a more efficient and sustainable solution, prompting major industry players like Equinor and Standard Lithium to heavily invest in this emerging method.

In May 2024, Equinor committed up to $160 million for a 45% stake in two of Standard Lithium’s projects, including the SWA initiative. Their collaboration commenced operations at a pilot DLE plant in December 2024, marking a significant milestone toward achieving their ambitious production goals.

Lithium Ionic Expands Baixa Grande Resource Estimate by 32%

Lithium Ionic

Baixa Grande Lithium Resource Sees Significant Growth

Lithium Ionic, a Canadian mining company, has expanded the mineral resource estimate for its Baixa Grande Project in Brazil by 32%. The updated figures increase the project’s measured and indicated (M&I) resources to 6.52 million metric tonnes (t), containing 179,580 t of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE).

The Baixa Grande Project is located in northern Minas Gerais State, Brazil, a key region for lithium production. The site sits east of the Colina deposit, which Pilbara Minerals acquired from Latin Resources in August 2024.

Lithium Ionic Expands Presence in Brazil’s Lithium Valley

In addition to Baixa Grande, Lithium Ionic owns the Bandeira Project, another lithium asset in Brazil’s Lithium Valley. The Bandeira Project holds an M&I resource of 23.7 million tonnes and received its construction permit in 2024. The company plans to begin lithium concentrate production in 2026, further strengthening its position in the battery metals market.

The expansion of Baixa Grande’s resources underscores Brazil’s growing role in global lithium supply. With lithium demand rising due to electric vehicle (EV) battery production, Lithium Ionic’s projects could help secure future supply chains.

Quebec Lithium Refinery Seeks 140,000 Tonnes Annual Spodumene Supply

Lithium Universe (LU7)

Lithium Universe's Quebec lithium refinery targets 140,000 tonnes yearly spodumene concentrate feedstock agreements. The Becancour facility negotiates with operational and near-term developers for decade-long supply contracts. This ambitious Quebec lithium refinery project strengthens North America's battery materials processing capacity significantly.

Phased Production Ramp-Up Starting 2028

LU7 plans strategic production scaling beginning with 56,000 tonnes in 2028. The company increases intake to 98,000 tonnes by 2029 before reaching full capacity. Meanwhile, the Quebec lithium refinery maintains ownership of all produced battery-grade lithium carbonate. The processor will purchase spodumene at benchmark prices for market flexibility.

Domestic processing offers substantial economic advantages over Chinese refinement alternatives. Furthermore, Canadian production saves $1,000-1,100 per tonne in transportation costs alone. The 25% import tariff elimination provides additional competitive advantages for North American buyers.

Competitive Economics Support Project Viability

The feasibility study reveals operating costs of $3,931 per tonne for processing. Capital investment totals $549 million with breakeven at $14,000/t lithium carbonate pricing. Therefore, current market conditions support strong project economics and profitability potential. LU7 remains flexible on feedstock sources including Brazil and African suppliers.

The Quebec lithium refinery avoids tolling arrangements to maintain product control completely. Moreover, this strategy allows direct sales to customers or spot market opportunities. As a result, Becancour positions itself as a strategic Western lithium processing hub. The facility addresses critical supply chain gaps in North American battery manufacturing.

The Metalnomist Commentary

LU7's feedstock search highlights North America's lithium processing bottleneck despite abundant upstream projects in development. The $1,000+/t transportation savings versus Chinese processing creates a compelling value proposition, but securing 140,000 tonnes of spodumene annually remains challenging given limited operational North American mines. Success depends on synchronizing refinery startup with emerging Canadian spodumene producers like Nemaska and Sayona.

Triple Flag Acquires Royalty on Tres Quebradas (3Q) Lithium Brine Project

Triple Flag

Canadian royalty firm Triple Flag Precious Metals has secured a 0.5% revenue royalty on the Tres Quebradas (3Q) lithium project in Catamarca, Argentina, for $28 million. This acquisition highlights the growing importance of securing lithium resources, driven by the surge in global demand for battery-grade materials.

The royalty agreement grants Triple Flag a share of the total revenue generated from the sale of lithium salts produced at the 3Q site. The seller, Lithium Royalty Corp, retains a 0.9% royalty on the project, maintaining its stake in the promising venture.

3Q Lithium Project Overview

The 3Q lithium project is fully owned and operated by Zijin Mining, a major Chinese precious metals producer. Currently under construction, the project is expected to begin operations in the second half of 2025, with an initial production capacity of 20,000 metric tonnes (t) per year of battery-grade lithium carbonate.

Zijin Mining acquired the 3Q project from Neo Lithium in 2022 for $770 million and has since expressed plans to expand its capacity to between 40,000-60,000 t/yr to meet rising global demand. The 3Q project employs a conventional brine extraction process involving evaporation and precipitation, with its process plant located in Fiambalá, Argentina. The project is fully permitted, positioning it as a reliable source of high-purity lithium carbonate for the EV and renewable energy industries.

Strategic Significance

The acquisition by Triple Flag underscores the increasing focus on royalty investments in critical minerals such as lithium, which are essential for electric vehicle (EV) batteries and renewable energy storage. This deal also highlights Argentina's growing prominence as a key player in the global lithium supply chain, alongside other major lithium-producing nations.

Patriot Expands Quebec Lithium Resource, Cementing Largest Pegmatite Deposit in the Americas

Patriot Battery Metals

Patriot's Shaakichiuwaanaan Project Emerges as a Strategic Lithium Asset

Patriot Battery Metals has increased indicated resources by 30% at its Quebec-based Shaakichiuwaanaan Lithium Project, reinforcing its position as the largest lithium pegmatite resource in the Americas. This development positions Canada as a growing heavyweight in the global battery metals supply chain.

The updated resource now totals 108 million metric tonnes, grading 1.4% lithium oxide. This equates to 3.75 million tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) — a critical input for electric vehicle (EV) batteries and energy storage systems. Located in the mineral-rich Eeyou Istchee James Bay region, the deposit is also the eighth largest lithium pegmatite resource globally, according to Patriot.

Strategic Metals Strengthen Project Value Beyond Lithium

In addition to lithium, the study revealed significant concentrations of tantalum, cesium, and gallium. These strategic metals play essential roles in electronics, semiconductors, and aerospace alloys. Their presence enhances the project’s economic potential and aligns with North America’s broader push for critical mineral independence.

Patriot’s advancement comes at a time when global supply chains are recalibrating around domestic resources. With China and other suppliers tightening controls on strategic materials, Western governments and manufacturers are increasingly turning to Canadian and U.S. projects for secure sourcing.

Feasibility Study Targeted for 2025

Patriot Battery Metals plans to release a maiden ore reserve and feasibility study by Q3 2025, based on the latest resource estimates. This timeline reflects growing investor interest in North American lithium development amid surging demand from the EV and energy sectors.

Meanwhile, the project's location in Quebec offers distinct advantages, including renewable hydroelectric power, government support, and proximity to U.S. manufacturing hubs.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Patriot’s 30% increase in lithium resources signals a strong step forward in North America’s bid for battery metal self-reliance. With a diversified mix of strategic metals and a globally ranked resource base, the Shaakichiuwaanaan Project stands poised to become a cornerstone in the Western critical minerals ecosystem.

PowerStone Metals Acquires Libra Lithium to Bolster Lithium Exploration in Canada

PowerStone Metals

In a strategic move to enhance its position in the critical minerals sector, Canadian mineral explorer PowerStone Metals has signed a definitive agreement to merge with Libra Lithium. This all-stock merger aims to accelerate the exploration and development of essential minerals like lithium, pivotal for the burgeoning battery and renewable energy markets.

Expanding Lithium Resources

The merger brings together PowerStone's robust exploration capabilities with Libra Lithium's significant assets, including six lithium projects in Ontario and one in Quebec, focusing on pegmatite and sedimentary resources. Additionally, Libra Lithium is currently engaged in a $33 million earn-in deal with US-based KoBold Metals. This partnership is set to explore Libra’s notable projects such as Flanders South, Flanders North, and Soules Bay-Caron in Ontario, leveraging KoBold's cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology to pinpoint new critical metal deposits.

Strategic Implications for the Lithium Market

This merger is expected to create a formidable entity in the mineral exploration industry, particularly within the lithium sector, which is critical for the production of electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy solutions. The integration of PowerStone and Libra Lithium's resources and technological collaborations highlights a significant step towards securing a stable and efficient supply chain for lithium in North America, amidst growing global demand.

Sigma Lithium to Double Brazil Lithium Output by 2026 Amid Soaring EV Demand

Sigma Lithium

Grota do Cirilo Expansion to Raise Annual Production Capacity to 520,000 Tonnes

Sigma Lithium Accelerates Brazil Expansion to Meet Global Battery Market Growth

Sigma Lithium announced plans to more than double its lithium concentrate output from Brazil by 2026, targeting surging global demand. The company expects to commission its expanded Grota do Cirilo operation in Minas Gerais during Q4 2025. Once complete, annual nameplate capacity will rise from 270,000 tonnes to 520,000 tonnes of lithium concentrate.

This move positions Sigma as a key player in the lithium supply chain, especially for electric vehicle (EV) battery production. The Canadian miner forecasts 2026 production to reach 520,000 tonnes of lithium oxide concentrate, up from 300,000 tonnes projected in 2025 and 240,000 tonnes in 2024.

Cost-Efficient Strategy Targets China’s Battery Manufacturers

Sigma Lithium also released pricing guidance, stating it expects a cash cost of $500 per tonne (CIF China). This cost-efficient model boosts the company’s competitiveness in supplying Asian battery manufacturers, particularly as China remains the largest EV battery market globally.

The expansion underscores Brazil's rising prominence in the lithium sector and strengthens Canada-Brazil ties in critical minerals development. Sigma’s operations are strategically important as automakers diversify lithium sources away from traditional markets like Australia and China.