EMP Metals Seeks Brackish Water Permits for Lithium Extraction
Event summary
- EMP Metals has submitted permit applications to the Saskatchewan Ministry of Energy and Resources for re-entry and testing of a brackish water well.
- A groundwater testing permit has already been approved by the Water Security Agency.
- The well is located near the Project Aurora Demonstration Plant site in southeastern Saskatchewan.
- The project is a collaboration between EMP Metals and Saltworks Technologies Inc. focused on lithium brine extraction and refining.
- EMP Metals holds over 205,000 net acres (83,000 hectares) of Subsurface Dispositions and strategic wellbores in Southern Saskatchewan.
The big picture
EMP Metals’ focus on brackish water utilization addresses a growing challenge in lithium extraction – the competition for freshwater resources. This strategy positions the company to potentially reduce environmental impact and operating costs, but hinges on securing reliable water access. The collaboration with Saltworks Technologies aims to reduce the risks associated with DLE, but the demonstration plant's performance will be crucial for attracting further investment and scaling up operations in a competitive lithium market.
What we're watching
- Regulatory Approval
- The timeline for permit approval from the Saskatchewan Ministry of Energy and Resources will be a key indicator of the project's progress and potential delays, given the company's reliance on government support.
- Water Security
- How effectively EMP Metals can secure and manage brackish water resources will be critical to the long-term viability of Project Aurora, especially given increasing water scarcity concerns in the region.
- Project Aurora
- The success of the Project Aurora demonstration plant in producing purified and concentrated lithium chloride will determine the scalability and commercial viability of EMP Metals’ direct lithium extraction technology.
Related topics