EMP Metals and Saltworks Showcase Lithium Extraction Tech to Government and Industry Leaders
Event summary
- EMP Metals and Saltworks hosted a delegation tour of the Project Aurora demonstration plant in Saskatchewan on October 1, 2026.
- The plant processes 10 m³/day of raw brine from wellhead to lithium chemicals, validating commercial-scale lithium recovery.
- Saltworks' Generation-II DLE system is generating operational data to train digital twins for full-scale design and cost optimization.
- EMP Metals plans initial commercial modules targeting 1,500 to 3,000 tonnes of lithium products annually.
The big picture
EMP Metals and Saltworks are advancing lithium extraction technology in Saskatchewan, positioning the region as a strategic player in the global battery-materials supply chain. The demonstration plant highlights the potential for integrated, data-driven approaches to simplify lithium brine refining and reduce costs. With support from government and industry leaders, the project underscores the growing importance of lithium as a critical resource for Canada's energy future.
What we're watching
- Technical Validation
- How the performance data from Project Aurora will de-risk scale-up and inform full-scale plant design.
- Regulatory Support
- Whether Saskatchewan's supportive critical-minerals regulatory environment will accelerate project timelines.
- Market Positioning
- The pace at which EMP Metals can establish Canada as a key contributor to the global battery-materials supply chain.
Related topics