MINEX Forum

Tag: renewable energy

  • Serbia’s Mining and Energy Minister Unveils Ambitious Energy Plans

    Serbia’s Mining and Energy Minister Unveils Ambitious Energy Plans

    Serbia’s Minister of Mining and Energy, Dubravka Đedović Handanović, has announced a significant investment of EUR 400 million in the rejuvenation of four state-owned hydropower plants operated by the power utility EPS. In addition, international financial institutions are posing challenges to gas investments, prompting the government to focus on renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power, with auctions scheduled for when the market is deemed ready.

    Handanović recently engaged in discussions with a delegation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to review Serbia’s standby agreement, emphasizing the importance of investments, energy sector reforms, and strategies to enhance energy security and diversify energy sources.

    “In our commitment to the decarbonization of the energy sector, it’s crucial for the government to act responsibly and ensure supply security while enhancing energy independence,” Handanović emphasized. She stressed the necessity of significant government investment to achieve decarbonization goals set forth in international agreements.

    Furthermore, Handanović highlighted the imminent completion of the desulfurization system at the TENT A coal-fired power plant, marking a significant environmental milestone. She also disclosed ongoing negotiations with Hyundai Engineering and UGT Renewables for a strategic partnership aimed at improving energy enterprise efficiency.

    Anticipating the commissioning of the new coal plant, Kostolac B3, Handanović outlined plans for additional renewable energy projects, including the construction of solar power plants with battery storage, with intentions to transfer these systems to EPS.

    The minister’s vision includes the swift completion of the Kostolac B3 coal plant and the inauguration of EPS’s first wind park in Kostolac by the first half of the following year. Additionally, progress has been made in preparing for the construction of the Bistrica pumped storage hydropower plant.

    Handanović also addressed plans for gas interconnections with North Macedonia and Romania as a priority for natural gas supply diversification. Despite challenges in securing financing for gas projects, collaboration with energy entities like Elektroprivreda Srbije and Srbijagas is ongoing to develop flexible pricing methodologies in response to market dynamics.

  • Kalisz, Poland, Secures PLN 14 Million Funding for Geothermal Drilling Project

    Kalisz, Poland, Secures PLN 14 Million Funding for Geothermal Drilling Project

    The City of Kalisz in Poland is poised to embark on an exploratory geothermal drilling initiative, thanks to PLN 14 million (approx. USD 3.5 million) in funding from the National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management (NFOSiGW). The financial support, granted based on Kalisz’s application, aims to subsidize the drilling of a vertical borehole, reaching a depth of 1700 meters at a designated site near the Aquapark swimming pool complex within the 2024-2025 timeframe. Kalisz Mayor Krystian Kinastowski expressed satisfaction, emphasizing the city’s long-standing efforts in project development and analysis. The geothermal well is expected to provide insights into the resource, aiding decisions on potential applications for heating or recreational purposes. Professor Jacek Zimny highlights the region’s geothermal potential, particularly along the Poznan–Konin-Kalisz-Sieradz line, deemed the “valley of warm,” with a relatively shallow reservoir at about two kilometers. Encouragement also stems from the successful utilization of geothermal heat in the nearby town of Uniejow. Geotermia Uniejow’s co-generation plant has been operational since the early 1990s, utilizing geothermal, biomass, and oil sources. Geothermal wells in Uniejow, reaching depths of approximately 2000 meters, serve as a promising precedent. The NFOSiGW’s commitment to geothermal development in Poland is evident, having allocated PLN 530 million in subsidies to 18 localities for geothermal research and appraisal well drilling by the end of 2023. Progress is already underway in Gniezno, Otwock, and Zyrardow.

  • State Bank Advises Germany to Diversify Copper, Lithium, and Rare Earth Supplies

    State Bank Advises Germany to Diversify Copper, Lithium, and Rare Earth Supplies

    KfW, the government-owned financing institution, urges Germany to adopt a “balanced catalogue of measures” to secure its essential raw material supply amid the global shifts of decarbonization and digitalization. A research report by IW Consult and Fraunhofer ISI, commissioned by KfW, highlights supply risks in the production and supply chains of key raw materials: copper, lithium, and rare earth minerals. The analysis identifies significant dependencies in sectors like automotive manufacturing, emphasizing the need for diversification at the core of any resilience strategy. With limited suppliers posing supply risks, the report suggests a comprehensive approach, including promoting technological progress for substitution and material efficiency. Germany’s transition to renewable energy faces challenges in sourcing resources for “green” technologies, necessitating strategic measures to avoid environmental and social impacts.

  • Teako Minerals announces strategic pivot with Norway as key focus

    Teako Minerals announces strategic pivot with Norway as key focus

    TEAKO MINERALS CORP. (the “Company” or “Teako“) announces that following a recent Norwegian parliament meeting and the various developments in mineral exploration in Fennoscandia in recent years, the Company has decided to pause exploration efforts in British Columbia, to primarily concentrate on Norway, while also maintaining a minor focus on Finland. The majority of the Company’s projects in British Columbia are in good standing for 2-3 years, allowing the Company the strategic flexibility to explore various alternatives, including the potential of partnering with other parties or selling the projects, as part of its ongoing commitment to maximizing shareholder value. Investors will be regularly informed of developments, ensuring transparency and continuous engagement with our valued stakeholders.

    The primary targeted metals in Norway will be copper, cobalt, and base metals, as well as gold and rare earth minerals (or “REE”), while in Finland, the focus will be on gold.

    The Rationale Behind the Pivot

    Access to critical and battery metals is crucial to establishing a robust value chain in Europe and carrying out the green shift. Today, most of the battery metals, such as nickel, cobalt, and lithium, are produced outside Europe, often in countries with low ESG standards. The EU has introduced a goal that 10% of all critical minerals consumed in the EU in 2030 will need to be produced in the EU by 2030. This means that the production of battery metals within the EU must be dramatically increased to attain this goal.

    Oil and gas have been the primary contributors to Norway’s recent sovereign wealth. However, in alignment with the green shift and rising commodity prices, the mineral exploration industry and Government are keen on reviving the mining and exploration sector, which became dormant in the 1970s due to low commodity prices and the discovery of oil and gas.

    The bedrock in Norway is promising for discoveries of new occurrences of battery and critical metals with its rich history of mining copper, nickel, and cobalt. Only a handful of exploration companies have carried out systematic exploration since the late 1980s; however, multiple major mines are about to open/reopen very shortly, namely the REE mines of Engebø and Fensfelt, as well as the copper mine in Finnmark by Nussir.

    Norway is currently also a world leader in renewable energy production, with an estimated 92% of the country’s energy supply being derived from hydroelectric plants and a further 6% from wind energy and other renewable sources.

    More recently, the Company was invited to attend and contribute to an event at the Norwegian Parliament held on January 16, 2024. The event focussed on sustainable exploration and extraction of critical metals, bringing together a diverse group of experts and industry leaders to discuss establishing Norway’s pivotal role in the European battery and critical minerals supply chain.

    The event surrounded a cross-political specialist seminar with representatives and advisors in the energy and environment committee, the finance committee, the industry committee, mining companies, politicians, and various organizations. The event was followed by a networking gathering where Teako and another Service Alliance partner, Kuniko Limited, and Norsk Bergindustri, met.

    The Company would like to express its profound gratitude to the Norwegian Parliament for the opportunity to contribute to the discussions on the development of Norway’s critical mineral infrastructure. We also sincerely thank Norsk Bergindustri and our Service Alliance partner, Kuniko Limited, for hosting the networking gathering.

  • Gravitricity to demonstrate energy storage tech in deep mine

    Gravitricity to demonstrate energy storage tech in deep mine

    A Scottish company aims to demonstrate its gravity energy storage technology at full scale in one of Europe’s deepest mines, near a small town in central Finland.

    Gravitricity said the plan to transform a disused mine shaft into an underground energy store – using its technology – could “offer new opportunities” for the remote community of Pyhäjärvi.

    The Edinburgh company has developed an energy storage system, known as GraviStore, which raises and lowers heavy weights in underground shafts, which it says offers “some of the best characteristics of lithium-ion batteries and pumped hydro storage”.

    Gravitricity said: “The community of Pyhäjärvi, with just 5000 inhabitants, lies 450 kilometres north of Finland’s capital, Helsinki. Nearby lies Pyhäsalmi Mine – Europe’s deepest zinc and copper mine – owned by First Quantum Minerals, a Canadian mining corporation, and descending 1,444 metres into the earth.

    “Many of the mine’s operations have now ended.”

    Gravitricity noted its technology uses heavy weights suspended in a deep shaft by cables attached to winches. When there is excess electricity, for example on a windy day, the weight is winched to the top of the shaft ready to generate power. This weight can then be released when required – in less than a second – and the winches become generators, producing either a large burst of electricity quickly, or releasing it more slowly depending on what is needed.

    The local community has set up a special development company, called Callio Pyhäjärvi, to promote regeneration projects at the historic mine, of which the GraviStore scheme will be part, Gravitricity noted.

    The Edinburgh company said: “The two organisations have now signed an agreement to transform a 530-metre-deep auxiliary shaft into a full-scale prototype of Gravitricity’s technology – and anticipate this could become Europe’s first GraviStore deployment.”

    It added that the scheme being developed would deliver up to two megawatts of storage capacity, declaring: “This would tie straight into the local electricity grid and provide balancing services to the Finnish network.”

    Gravitricity noted it had last year signed an agreement with Swedish-Swiss energy multinational ABB to use ABB’s mine-hoist expertise to help accelerate the adoption of underground energy storage.

    It added that it anticipated ABB would lend its expertise to the project, alongside Gravitricity’s other strategic partner, Dutch winch specialist Huisman.

    Gravitricity executive chairman Martin Wright said: “This project will demonstrate at full scale how our technology can offer reliable long-life energy storage that can capture and store energy during periods of low demand and release it rapidly when required.

    “This full-scale project will provide a pathway to other commercial projects and allow our solution to be embedded into mine decommissioning activities, offering a potential future for mines approaching the end of their original service life.”

    He added: “It will also provide vital new low-carbon jobs in an area which has suffered significantly from the end of traditional mining operations.”

  • Kazakhstan Energy Transition

    Kazakhstan Energy Transition

    Steppes to Net Zero

    This report provides a comprehensive perspective on Kazakhstan’s energy transition pathway, striking a delicate balance between energy costs, supply reliability, and environmental sustainability. It sheds light on the economic risks associated with continued support for coal-fired generation and highlights the need for international funding to assist the country in its just transition. While Kazakhstan’s individual contribution to global emissions may be limited, similar to that of Spain or France, its emissions intensity relative to GDP remains alarmingly high, with the energy sector being the primary source of greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 82.4% of the country’s total emissions. Fuel combustion alone is responsible for 70.5% of Kazakhstan’s overall greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the Central Asian region is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, further emphasizing the urgency of taking action.

    It is important to note that there is currently no political commitment to phase out coal due to concerns over potential disruption to the socio-spatial and economic balance. Political support for coal-fired technologies is driven by the inflexibility of the energy system and the legacy of district heating. However, maintaining support for coal in the long term poses significant economic risks and hinders investment in activities that could diversify Kazakhstan’s economy and facilitate a just transition.

    The upcoming decade or so will be crucial in laying the groundwork for the new economy. Failing to do so will result in economic stranding, as legacy revenue streams and traditional jobs dwindle without the offset from new, clean revenue streams and employment opportunities.

    Kazakhstan’s current low carbon price fails to incentivize energy transformation and proves to be an ineffective policy tool, especially considering the availability of free quotas. To facilitate Kazakhstan’s energy transition, it is imperative to establish a higher carbon price through reduced free quotas and government auctions.

    By 2030, the integration of renewable energy sources will necessitate the implementation of storage at scale to ensure system flexibility. Governmental planning and support for the rollout of storage infrastructure will be vital during this decade.

    Financial aid is essential for Kazakhstan to expedite its transition to clean energy. Blended concessional financing should be made available to facilitate the just transition from coal to clean power, contingent upon the existence of a credible coal phaseout plan.

    Current political and technological commitments run the risk of perpetuating the fossil fuel infrastructure and impeding the growth of renewables. Power prices are expected to rise significantly with the addition of new coal plants or retrofitting of existing ones. However, the inclusion of renewables, which have demonstrated declining price trends in renewable energy auctions, will lower power prices for end users. New coal plants are twice as expensive as new renewables with storage, and breaking even would require a doubling of power tariffs. Under our base scenario, new renewables will outcompete existing coal units within one year, while renewables with storage will be cost competitive within five years. It is crucial to accelerate and expand the deployment of renewables on a larger scale than currently envisioned.

  • By 2030, EU may rely on China’s batteries as it did Russian energy

    By 2030, EU may rely on China’s batteries as it did Russian energy

    A paper prepared for EU leaders has raised concerns about the potential dependency of the European Union on China for lithium-ion batteries and fuel cells by 2030, similar to its past dependence on Russia for energy prior to the conflict in Ukraine. This issue will be a focal point of discussions on Europe’s economic security during the EU leaders’ meeting in Granada, Spain, on October 5th.

    Given China’s increasing assertiveness and economic influence on the global stage, the leaders will evaluate the European Commission’s proposals to mitigate the risk of excessive reliance on China and explore diversification opportunities towards Africa and Latin America.

    The paper emphasizes that due to the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources such as solar or wind, Europe must develop energy storage solutions to achieve its goal of net-zero carbon dioxide emissions by 2050. As a result, the demand for lithium-ion batteries, fuel cells, and electrolyzers is expected to surge between 10 and 30 times in the coming years, according to the paper prepared by the Spanish presidency of the EU.

    While the EU holds a strong position in the intermediate and assembly stages of electrolyzer production, boasting over 50% of the global market share, it heavily relies on China for crucial components like fuel cells and lithium-ion batteries, particularly for electric vehicles.

    Without implementing robust measures, the paper warns that by 2030, the European energy ecosystem could face a different but equally concerning dependence on China, akin to the dependency on Russia before the invasion of Ukraine.

    Before the Russian invasion, the EU sourced over 40% of its total gas consumption, 27% of its oil imports, and 46% of its coal imports from Russia, according to the European Commission’s data. The abrupt cessation of energy purchases from Russia caused an energy price shock in the EU, leading to a surge in consumer inflation. This necessitated the European Central Bank to raise interest rates significantly, ultimately dampening economic growth.

    However, the vulnerability of the EU extends beyond lithium-ion batteries and fuel cells. The paper highlights the potential for a similar scenario in the digital-tech sector, as the demand for digital devices such as sensors, drones, data servers, storage equipment, and data transmission networks is projected to rise sharply in the coming decade.

    While the EU maintains a relatively strong position in certain aspects of the digital-tech sector, notable weaknesses exist in other areas, as stated in the document.

    By 2030, this foreign dependency could severely hinder the productivity gains urgently required by the European industry and service sector. Furthermore, it could impede the modernization of agricultural systems necessary to address the challenges posed by climate change, the paper concludes.

  • Polish main opposition seeks green push after October election

    Polish main opposition seeks green push after October election

    Poland’s largest opposition party, Civic Platform (PO), harbors ambitious plans to expedite the country’s departure from coal if it emerges victorious in the fiercely contested upcoming election. At present, Poland heavily relies on coal for electricity generation, resulting in exorbitant power prices within Europe and a substantial carbon footprint. Such circumstances could impede the nation’s ability to attract environmentally friendly projects and export energy-intensive goods, such as steel. PO envisions a radical transformation, aiming to transition from coal to wind and solar as the primary sources of Polish electricity by the decade’s end.

    Grzegorz Onichimowski, a former CEO of the Polish power exchange and a member of the team shaping PO’s energy program, emphasizes the urgency of establishing renewable energy sources as the bedrock of Poland’s energy system. The party sets its sights on achieving between 65% and 70% of the country’s energy production from renewable sources by 2030.

    At present, coal accounts for roughly 70% of Poland’s electricity generation. PO’s energy plan, with the support of potential coalition partners from smaller left-wing and centrist groups, entails measures like unbundling state-controlled power utilities to facilitate grid access for renewable capacity. Furthermore, the party plans to loosen regulations for constructing new onshore wind farms, thereby bolstering capacity and replacing outdated turbines with more efficient ones.

    PO opposes the current government’s strategy of establishing a new state-owned company for coal-fired power plants, instead favoring the utilization of coal plants with the shortest lifespan and lowest profitability as a reserve pool for the power grid.

    While polls generally indicate that the ruling Law and Justice party (PiS) and its allies maintain a lead in the election race, the margin is narrow enough that PO, in collaboration with smaller parties, could potentially form a majority coalition. However, the implementation of its energy policy would require overcoming resistance from influential trade unions and potential presidential vetoes from PiS-aligned President Andrzej Duda.

    Although renewable energy garners broad support among the Polish populace, the election’s primary focus remains on economic concerns, encompassing double-digit inflation and escalating energy prices. Nevertheless, the opposition may capitalize on the argument that transitioning to renewables can alleviate the cost of living.

    Poland’s coal industry employs nearly 76,000 individuals, and the government has committed to sustaining coal mining until 2049. However, coal production is dwindling, leading to increased costs and reduced power generation. Embracing renewables could not only reduce energy bills but also yield savings in fuel and emission expenses.

    Moreover, Poland’s competitiveness in attracting foreign industrial investments may be at stake. As companies increasingly prioritize environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) criteria, the availability of renewable power for production facilities is emerging as a pivotal factor. Therefore, Poland’s commitment to a more sustainable energy transition may prove indispensable in securing investments from companies seeking cleaner energy sources.

  • Exploring Sustainable Mining and Resource Practices in Europe: Germany and Finland’s Venture into IMARC 2023 Down Under

    Exploring Sustainable Mining and Resource Practices in Europe: Germany and Finland’s Venture into IMARC 2023 Down Under

    Germany, a nation lauded for its technological excellence and dedication to ecological sustainability, stands at a crucial juncture concerning the trajectory of its mining and resources sector.

    Throughout history, mining has been a cornerstone of Germany’s economy. However, today, this industry grapples with an array of challenges that necessitate a harmonious approach. Balancing the imperatives of economic expansion, environmental preservation, and reducing dependence on foreign resources is of paramount importance.

    Germany, renowned for its technological prowess and commitment to ecological sustainability, stands at a critical juncture in shaping its mining and resources sector’s future.

    Throughout its history, mining has been a linchpin of Germany’s economy. Nevertheless, the sector now confronts an array of challenges that necessitate a harmonious approach. Striking a balance between economic expansion, environmental preservation, and reducing reliance on foreign resources has become imperative.

    Juergen Wallstabe, representing the German-Australian Chamber of Industry and Commerce, points out that although mining activities have waned across Europe over several decades, Germany has expanded its global presence in the resources sector. High-tech METS companies in Germany are increasingly exporting innovative and technologically advanced solutions worldwide.

    Wallstabe is optimistic that IMARC will provide a platform for established and emerging German firms to enhance their reputation for technological excellence and innovation.

    “Germany’s leading position in engineering and manufacturing has resulted in a world-leading METS sector,” Wallstabe emphasizes. “We are convinced that on the one hand, German METS companies can support the Australian and other mining industry operators to reach their targets related to safety, productivity, efficiency, and decarbonization. On the other hand, Australia is a valuable partner for Germany’s resources needs.”

    IMARC has been highlighting the industry’s environmental impact and its role in fostering a sustainable, decarbonized economy in recent years. A particular focus has been on the often-unwelcome legacy of mining operations, which have left lasting scars on landscapes, disrupted ecosystems, and polluted water sources.

    Wallstabe highlights that IMARC offers an opportunity to showcase how Germany’s emphasis on environmental protection has led to stringent regulations for mitigating these legacy impacts.

    “Germany’s commitment to remediating and restoring abandoned mining sites demonstrates our dedication to healing environmental wounds. IMARC offers a chance to share our experiences and learn from others facing similar challenges,” he notes.

    Energy security is back in the spotlight in Europe, partly driven by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the need for reliable energy supply. Germany’s ambitious Energiewende (energy transition) plan aims to phase out nuclear power and significantly reduce carbon emissions by promoting renewable energy sources. Consequently, the focus has shifted towards sustainable mining practices supporting the production of materials crucial for renewable energy technologies, such as lithium for batteries and rare earth elements for wind turbines and solar panels. This presents an opportunity for the mining sector to contribute positively to Germany’s energy transformation.

    Wallstabe notes, “To manage the energy transition, Germany’s and Europe’s need for critical minerals will increase dramatically for the foreseeable future. Australia is already and will continue to be a key player in securing a steady supply of critical minerals. Wind turbines need steel, copper, and strong magnets with rare earths minerals. Batteries consist of a wide range of critical minerals like Lithium, Manganese, Copper, Nickel, Cobalt, and the hydrogen industry needs Platinum, Iridium or Scandium. All resources that Europe struggles to produce in sufficient quantities.”

    IMARC spokesperson Paul Phelan underscores the significance of Germany’s strong representation at the event. He believes that delegates can anticipate a showcase of Germany’s renowned innovation, particularly within the mining sector.

    “It is clear that Germany’s public and private sectors are investing in the long term, with its research institutions and companies actively exploring novel technologies to enhance resource extraction efficiency, reduce environmental impacts, and improve worker safety,” says Phelan.

    “Automation, digitalization, and artificial intelligence are becoming integral to modern mining practices, enabling better resource management and reduced ecological footprints. IMARC offers an opportunity to witness how a technological giant like Germany is leading the way.”

    Germany’s mining industry, like that of other advanced nations, is closely linked to global supply chains. Ensuring ethical sourcing and responsible procurement of minerals from abroad becomes crucial in upholding the nation’s commitment to sustainability.

    Finland, on the other hand, adopts a different approach to secure critical minerals, emphasizing e-waste recycling. Birgit Tegethoff, Senior Advisor at Business Finland Australia, highlights Finland’s leadership in e-waste recycling, with companies like Metso pioneering hydrometallurgical battery black mass recycling.

    “The Finnish mineral industry has the circular economy heavily ingrained in its DNA, giving it a competitive edge in the global market. By increasing the use of recycled components in battery production, we can reduce the carbon footprint throughout our battery supply chain and lessen our dependence on international supply chains,” notes Tegethoff.

    Developing strategic international partnerships in the green minerals sector is a top priority for Finland. Ilkka Homanen, the head of the Finnish delegation, has extended an invitation to Australian research institutes and the broader resource industry to engage at IMARC 2023 and join consortia aimed at solving green minerals value chain challenges.

    Rolf Kuby, Director-General of Euromines, asserts that the issues facing Germany and Finland are not unique but are felt across Europe. He emphasizes the need to build a degree of open strategic autonomy and future-proof value chains.

    Phelan highlights Europe’s profound energy transformation in alignment with the EU’s sustainability and innovation goals. He believes that events like IMARC provide a platform for leading economies to secure their “resources resilience.”

    In addition to the Germany pavilion, a 90-minute German Program will be featured at IMARC 2023, curated by the German delegation and Chamber within the Global Opportunities Theatre.

    Other programs featured at the event this year include Canada, Australia, Mongolia, Ecuador, Chile, Saudi Arabia, Quebec, Ontario, and South Korea.

  • Vulcan begins commissioning of lithium extraction plant in Germany

    Vulcan begins commissioning of lithium extraction plant in Germany

    ASX-listed Vulcan Energy Resources has started commissioning of its lithium extraction optimisation plant (LEOP) in Landau at Upper Rhine Valley in Germany.

    Considered to be a milestone for Vulcan, the plant will extract, purify and increase the concentration of lithium chloride from brine. This phase is said to be a major step forward for the company and its zero-carbon lithium project.

    The start of the plant will enable the domestic supply independence of lithium, a critical raw material that is used in the production of electric vehicle (EV) batteries.

    Vulcan stated that the commissioning phase will continue until October, which is also when the first brine will be introduced into the plant to begin the lithium extraction process.

    Construction on the project began last year and was designed for optimisation, operational training and product qualification facility to provide commercial readiness by the end of 2025.

    Vulcan CEO Cris Moreno said: “By 2030, Europe is likely to face a significant lithium shortage, which could have serious implications for the European battery and automotive industries if domestic supplies are not realised. Vulcan is gearing up to be the first to produce lithium from Europe, for Europe, but also to be the first company worldwide to produce carbon-neutral lithium.

    “The start of the commissioning of our LEOP facility is a key step toward the implementation of phase one of our Zero Carbon Lithium™ Project, and in enabling a secure and independent European supply chain for lithium.”

    The initial phase of commercial operations at the plant aims to have a production of 24,000tpa of lithium hydroxide production, which will be supplied to off-takers in Europe.

    For lithium extraction from brine, Vulcan will use adsorption-type direct lithium extraction (A-DLE), which is claimed to have been commercially proven.

    The method can be deployed for low operating costs, more time efficiency and reduced carbon footprint compared to legacy industry methods for producing lithium. It will be powered using renewable heat instead of gas.