EMP Metals Launches Full-Scale Lithium Refinement Operations in…

Event summary

EMP Metals completed commissioning of its Project Aurora demonstration plant in Saskatchewan on September 22, 2026, transitioning to full-time operations.
The facility processes 10 m³/day of raw brine, validating performance and optimizing parameters for future commercial-scale development.
Saltworks Technologies is using operational data to design a modular commercial refinery capable of producing over 3,000 tonnes per year of lithium products.
EMP Metals plans initial commercial modules targeting 1,500 to 3,000 tonnes of lithium products annually, with expansion potential.

The big picture

EMP Metals' transition to full-time operations at Project Aurora marks a critical step in advancing direct lithium extraction (DLE) technology. The company's favorable brine chemistry and strategic location in Saskatchewan position it to capitalize on the growing demand for lithium, particularly as the industry shifts towards more sustainable and cost-effective extraction methods. The collaboration with Saltworks Technologies underscores the strategic importance of optimizing the refining process to reduce costs and de-risk scale-up, which is essential for competing in the global lithium market.

What we're watching

Process Optimization: How EMP Metals and Saltworks Technologies will leverage operational data to refine and scale the lithium extraction process.
Commercial Viability: Whether the demonstration plant's success will translate into a viable commercial-scale operation within the targeted 1,500 to 3,000 tonnes per year.
Regulatory Environment: The impact of Saskatchewan's supportive critical-minerals regulatory environment on EMP Metals' expansion plans.