The first production of lithium hydroxide in Germany heralds a new era for European energy independence!
A local and sustainable resource
Vulcan Energy has implemented an ambitious strategy to harness lithium from geothermal brine, a pioneering initiative aimed at establishing a sustainable source of lithium in Europe. Located in the Upper Rhine Valley of Germany, this combined geothermal and lithium resource is the largest on the continent, positioning Vulcan at the forefront of the industry.
Feasibility study and initial productions
In February 2023, Vulcan published the results of a definitive feasibility study for the first phase of its lithium project, forecasting an initial annual production of 24,000 tons of lithium hydroxide monohydrate (LHM). This complex process transforms extracted lithium chloride into a battery-grade finished product.
Technological innovation in transformation
To refine processes towards commercial production, Vulcan set up two pilot plants in Germany. By April, the first lithium chloride was extracted from geothermal brine. In November, this intermediate product was converted into battery-grade lithium hydroxide at their optimized Landau facility.
Towards an integrated supply chain
The project is not just a technical advancement but also an innovation in terms of supply chain. By completing the entire process from raw material to final product, Vulcan not only produces lithium but also forges strategic independence for Europe.
- Reduction in carbon footprint through renewable energy usage
- Efficient supply chain with short circuits to European automotive industry
Significant reductions in carbon footprint
By utilizing renewable energies for extraction and processing and maintaining short supply routes to Europe’s automotive sector, Vulcan aims to minimize its carbon footprint. This method could establish one of the world’s most efficient supply chains for lithium while reducing costs.
Strategic partnerships and validation
The produced lithium hydroxide is now available to Vulcan’s partners for validation. Major entities such as Stellantis, Renault, LG, and Umicore are already involved, highlighting the strategic and commercial importance of this initiative.
Cris Moreno, CEO of Vulcan, emphasizes: “Today marks a significant step forward in our goal to establish a domestic supply chain that will provide green lithium to Europe’s automotive industry for electric vehicle battery production.”
The race for European independence against Chinese dominance
The production of lithium hydroxide by Vulcan Energy in Germany is a move towards European autonomy in a market dominated by China. This development frees Europe from dependency by securing a local source of lithium essential for electric vehicle batteries. It bolsters European sovereignty by offering a sustainable alternative to Chinese imports while supporting Europe’s technological and economic independence.
- A novel project aligning with current trends
With this successful initial production, Vulcan not only manufactures an essential component for electric vehicle batteries; it actively contributes to a green revolution necessary for Europe’s independence and ecological transition.
This article explores Vulcan Energy’s significant breakthrough in producing lithium hydroxide in Germany, marking a turning point in Europe’s material independence and supporting the transition towards zero-emission mobility. This development promises substantial carbon emission reductions while reinforcing the local supply chain for green technologies.
