ABB and Vulcan Energy Resources Partner to Advance Carbon-Neutral Lithium Production in Europe
ABB and Vulcan Energy Resources have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the Zero Carbon Lithium Project, aimed at developing carbon-neutral lithium for the burgeoning battery manufacturing sector. This project is set in Germany's Upper Rhine Valley region, which holds the largest lithium resource in Europe.
The partnership will focus on the initial phases of design, engineering, execution, and operations for Vulcan's project. Vulcan aims to extract lithium-rich brine from underground reservoirs using geothermal heat, not only to extract lithium but also to generate renewable energy for the production process.
The collaboration outlines a joint effort to deliver electrification and automation solutions, with ABB involving early in the process alongside EPCm contractors and other technology providers. This strategic alliance is set against the backdrop of the European Union's ambitious goal to achieve zero emissions from all vehicles by 2035, a target that underscores a significant projected increase in lithium demand within Europe.
Cris Moreno, Managing Director and CEO of Vulcan, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with ABB, highlighting it as a critical component in achieving the first phase of their integrated renewable energy and lithium production project. He emphasized the mutual commitment to sustainability and innovation that defines the collaboration.
Michael Marti, Global Business Line Manager, Growth Industries at ABB Process Industries, noted that the partnership is a testament to both companies' dedication to advancing battery manufacturing technology. He underscored the importance of their combined expertise and technologies in setting a foundation for secure energy solutions into the next decade.
In the short term, this cooperation will focus on refining design principles and optimizing electrification and automation processes for both power and operations. Looking ahead, the partnership aims to extend beyond the project's completion, encompassing operational support and continuous improvement initiatives that will enhance the plant's lifecycle performance.
