Standard Lithium and Equinor have been awarded a 225-million-dollar grant for their joint lithium project in southwest Arkansas. The funds come from the U.S. Department of Energyʼs Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains. According to the companies, the funds will be used to finance the first construction phase of a direct lithium extraction project. The technology is described as more resource-friendly and efficient than conventional methods, as it uses less water and requires less environmental disturbance.
Production could begin in 2028
The project, located in Lafayette and Columbia counties in Arkansas, is expected to produce a total of 45,000 tons of lithium carbonate per year in two phases. Phase 1 is expected to have an annual capacity of 22,500 tons, with production commencing in 2028 at the earliest. A final investment decision is expected by the end of 2025. Technical and economic feasibility studies are underway.
Source:
https://www.equinor.com/news/20250116-arkansas-lithium-usd-225-million-award
