Vulcan Energy Starts Commissioning Lithium Hydroxide Testing Plant in Germany
Vulcan Energy Resources, a Perth-based company supported by Gina Rinehart, has commenced the commissioning of its lithium hydroxide testing plant in central Germany. The plant, located near Frankfurt, represents a key step in Vulcan’s plans to establish a commercial-scale facility aimed at enhancing Europe’s electric vehicle supply chain.
The testing plant will convert lithium chloride from an upstream facility into battery-grade lithium hydroxide, marking Europe’s first domestic pit-to-product lithium material. Vulcan’s chief executive, Cris Moreno, emphasized the strategic importance of this development, stating, "The start of commissioning of Vulcan's downstream lithium optimization facility is a significant milestone for Europe's critical raw material independence."
In the upcoming months, Vulcan will begin transporting lithium chloride from its upstream facility to the new plant for the production of Europe’s first battery-grade lithium hydroxide from a European source. The company's zero-carbon lithium project is centered around a geothermal power plant and brine field in the Upper Rhine Valley, targeting an initial production of 24,000 tonnes per year.
Vulcan's significant Australian investors include Gina Rinehart, who holds a 7.4% stake, her son John Hancock with 2.7%, and CIMIC Group at 6%. The company is positioning itself to play a pivotal role in reducing Europe's reliance on imported battery materials by utilizing its innovative zero-carbon lithium extraction methods.
