European Metals Selects EPR1 Site for Cinovec Lithium Project Processing Plant

European Metals Holdings Ltd has announced the final selection of the EPR1 site for the processing plant of its Cinovec Lithium project in Czechia. This decision marks an important milestone in the project's development, moving it closer to realization.

The Prunéřov EPR1 site was chosen after extensive evaluations, which included assessments of construction costs, geotechnical surveys, and sustainability factors. The site offers several advantages, such as established road and rail infrastructure, close access to utilities including power, gas, and water, and the use of rehabilitated land, which will help reduce the environmental footprint of the project. Additionally, the site's proximity to the CEZ-operated EPR2 power station may further reduce both construction and operational costs, and potentially allow for expanded processing capacity.

Keith Coughlan, executive chair of European Metals, highlighted the benefits of the chosen location, stating that it provides a strategic advantage by being in an existing industrial area. This setup will reduce construction costs, improve feasibility, and offer synergies due to its closeness to the CEZ-operated power station. Coughlan also emphasized that the location allows access to ongoing green energy sources from solar installations and potentially from a Small Modular Nuclear Reactor, aligning with the company’s decarbonization goals.

The company is now in the process of updating its Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) to reflect this new configuration, with results expected by mid-2025. Ongoing engineering work is focused on optimizing costs, increasing production, and improving lithium recovery rates. A recent adjustment to the Front-End Comminution and Beneficiation (FECAB) circuit, which now involves 100% flotation, has already led to enhanced recovery rates and reduced costs.

Coughlan expressed confidence in Cinovec's role in Europe's lithium supply and the green energy transition. He noted that the updated DFS is aimed at reducing costs, boosting production volumes, and refining the processing flowsheet to improve efficiency. He reaffirmed the company's belief that Cinovec will play a significant role in Europe's transition to renewable energy sources.