ReElement Technologies Corporation, a well-respected provider of refining capacity for rare earth and critical battery elements, recently announced a new collaboration with UK-based Jupiter Lithium Ltd to develop Nigeria’s first large-scale lithium deposit.
This ambitious project, known as the Jupiter Critical Minerals Project, seeks to position Nigeria as a key player in lithium mining and electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing. Covering a vast area of 442 km2 of lithium-rich terrain, it holds the potential to be a transformative endeavor for the country.
Jupiter Lithium, the owner of Basin Mining Ltd and Range Mining Ltd, is committed to expanding its operations from contract mining to large-scale owner operations. The company aims to construct a spodumene concentrator facility with an initial estimated production of 55,000 t of 6% lithium spodumene concentrate annually, and the potential to increase to 167,000 t within two years.
ReElement, on the other hand, will be responsible for designing and building a lithium and critical mineral refinery to process the spodumene concentrate into high-purity, battery-grade lithium carbonate and other critical minerals. This represents a significant stride towards establishing a robust local industry and enhancing advanced manufacturing in the region.
Mark Jensen, CEO of ReElement Technologies, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We have the technology and expertise to refine large-scale spodumene in the region, offering environmentally safer and cost-efficient solutions. This partnership will not only unlock the potential of one of the largest lithium projects worldwide, but also drive job creation and innovative industrialization.”
Stephen Davis, Chairman of Jupiter Lithium Ltd, echoed Jensen’s sentiments, emphasizing the project’s potential to shift Nigeria’s reliance from oil and gas to clean, solid energy. He also stressed the economic opportunities that the downstream processing of the ore will bring to the region.
In conclusion, the partnership between ReElement and Jupiter Lithium marks a significant milestone in the global mining and energy sector. It not only signifies a lucrative business venture, but also holds the promise of advancing Nigeria’s economic and industrial landscape. With the potential to become a major player in the lithium production market, Nigeria is poised to make a far-reaching impact on the clean energy industry and the global economy.
Source:
Bentham, J. (2024, July 16). ReElement and Jupiter Lithium partner to commercialise Nigerian lithium deposit. Global Mining Review. https://www.globalminingreview.com/mining/16072024/reelement-and-jupiter-lithium-partner-to-commercialise-nigerian-lithium-deposit/