The company behind plans to bring the UK’s first lithium hydroxide factory to the Teesside freeport has launched a feasibility study for the project.
Tees Valley Lithium, a subsidiary of Alkemy Capital Investments, has appointed consultants Wave International to look at the technical and economic basis for the factory which would process chemicals used in electric vehicles batteries.
In an update to investors, Tees Valley Lithium said the study will also become the basis for the finalisation of approvals, as well as the next stages of detailed engineering development and major equipment procurement.
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Tees Valley Lithium CEO John Walker said: “We are very pleased to be partnering with leading experts at Wave International and ANZAPLAN in order to hit this important milestone in TVL’s journey.
“Our primary focus at TVL is to establish world-class Lithium Hydroxide production in the Wilton International Chemical Park in the Teesside Freeport to supply the burgeoning demand from gigafactories in the UK and Europe.”
Wave International - which has been involved in the development of lithium hydroxide refineries in Australia - will look at metallurgical testwork programmes, development of lithium supply strategies and project economic evaluation, among other factors.
Wave International and Wave Europe BV director Ryan Hanrahan added: “It’s an exciting time in the lithium industry, and it’s even more exciting to be working with a company such as TVL.
“We fully support TVL’s clear vision to tackle the manufacturing of low carbon lithium, and address gaps in the UK / EU supply chain.
“With the imminent completion of the Class 4 study, underpinned by TVLs experienced management and site at the Wilton International Chemical Park, we can see this project accelerating quickly towards execution.”
