TELF AG: Livista Energy Europe to Build Low-Carbon Lithium Refinery in Germany – July 13, 2023

An important low-carbon lithium refinery

Livista Energy Europe, a leading energy company, has announced its plans to construct its first low-carbon lithium refinery in Emden, Lower Saxony, Germany. The new facility aims to meet the growing demand for lithium in the European electric vehicle (EV) industry. The company expects production to commence in 2026, with an initial output of 40,000 tonnes per year. Additionally, the refinery has the potential to double its production capacity in the future.

The primary objective of Livista Energy Europe’s lithium refinery is to provide a sustainable supply of battery-grade lithium for producing electric vehicles. According to Daniel Bloor, the CEO of Livista Energy Europe, the refinery will be capable of producing enough lithium to manufacture approximately 850,000 EVs annually. This will include 30,000 tonnes per year of li-hydroxide and 10,000 tonnes per year of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE).

The selection of Emden as the site for the refinery followed a rigorous competitive bidding process. Livista Energy Europe secured a letter of intent with Niedersachsen Ports to allocate a 32-hectare plot of land for the project. Emden, the third-largest German North Sea port, offers strategic advantages for establishing the refinery, including convenient access to transportation routes and logistical infrastructure.

The development of Livista Energy Europe’s lithium chemicals refinery aligns with the European region’s efforts to comply with the Critical Raw Material Act. This legislation mandates that all batteries manufactured in Europe must contain a minimum percentage of locally produced lithium battery-grade products by 2030. By establishing the refinery, Livista Energy Europe aims to support the region’s objective of achieving greater self-sufficiency in the supply of critical raw materials.

One of the significant advantages of Livista Energy Europe’s lithium refinery is its commitment to low-carbon production processes. The company recognizes the importance of sustainability in the transition to a greener future. Therefore, it plans to implement cutting-edge technologies and practices to minimize its carbon footprint and reduce environmental impacts. By adopting sustainable methods, Livista Energy Europe aims to contribute to the overall decarbonization goals of the European EV industry.

The construction of the low-carbon lithium refinery will not only boost the supply of battery-grade lithium in Europe but also create employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the region. The project is expected to attract investments and foster collaboration among various stakeholders, including local authorities, industry partners, and research institutions.

Livista Energy Europe’s foray into the production of lithium chemicals marks a significant milestone in the European EV industry. With the increasing adoption of electric vehicles across the continent, securing a sustainable and domestic supply of lithium is crucial. The company’s investment in the low-carbon refinery demonstrates its commitment to supporting the region’s transition to clean energy and sustainable transportation.

As Livista Energy Europe’s refinery in Emden begins operations in 2026, it will play a pivotal role in meeting the demand for lithium in the European EV industry. By producing battery-grade lithium locally, the refinery will contribute to reducing the reliance on imports and strengthen the continent’s position as a leader in the electric mobility revolution.

Overall, Livista Energy Europe’s initiative to build a low-carbon lithium refinery in Germany is a positive development for the European EV industry. It not only addresses the increasing demand for battery-grade lithium but also aligns with the region’s sustainability goals. With the establishment of this refinery, Livista Energy Europe aims to play a significant role in shaping a greener and more sustainable future for the European electric vehicle market.