DLE Weekly delivers the latest insights on Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) technologies, industry developments, and market trends. Stay tuned to see how DLE is shaping the future of sustainable energy.
DLE Weekly - 20 June 2025
Global Business, BICHEM Group
Energy Major Makes Strategic Shift Toward U.S. Critical Minerals
In June 2025, Chevron U.S.A. Inc. acquired lease rights to approximately 125,000 acres of lithium-rich brine resources in northeastern Texas and southwestern Arkansas, marking its formal entry into the domestic lithium sector. This strategic move aims to strengthen the U.S. supply of critical minerals and support energy manufacturing. Chevron joins a growing list of traditional oil and gas majors, including ExxonMobil, Occidental, and Equinor, leveraging their expertise in subsurface exploration and chemical processing to advance direct lithium extraction (DLE) technologies as a more sustainable alternative to evaporation ponds. Amid global lithium price fluctuations and accelerating green energy transitions, energy giants are rapidly building out a North American lithium supply chain to reduce dependence on imports and secure long-term access to battery materials essential for the energy future.
Germany Approves An Integrated Geothermal-Lithium Project
In June 2025, Vulcan Energy, an Australian lithium energy producer, received official approval from the German government to construct its integrated geothermal-lithium project in Landau, marking a major milestone for the company’s Lionheart Project. The project uniquely combines clean electricity generation with lithium extraction from the same brine source. It includes plans to build a 30 MW geothermal power plant and substation, co-producing renewable energy and battery-grade lithium hydroxide. Once operational, it will supply sustainable electricity to the German grid and provide a local lithium source for Europe’s rapidly expanding EV and battery industries. Vulcan Energy’s environmentally responsible co-production model is expected to enhance its strategic position in the European clean energy and battery supply chain.
Chile Opens Bidding for New Lithium Contracts
In June 2025, the Chilean government launched the evaluation process for two new Special Lithium Operation Contracts (CEOLs), signaling a significant step toward greater private sector involvement in lithium development. The applications were submitted by the Llamara Group and a consortium led by Wealth Minerals, targeting two high-potential blocks in the Llamara salt flat. While one project aims to create an integrated hub for mining, chemical processing, and green hydrogen, the other focuses on lithium salt production, each pursuing distinct technological pathways. The government has imposed strict entry requirements, emphasizing transparency, indigenous consultation, and protection of national interests. This marks a broader shift in Chile’s lithium strategy.
High-Grade Lithium Brine Project in Argentina Targets PEA Completion by Q3 2025
NOA Lithium Brines is advancing its flagship Rio Grande lithium brine project in Argentina’s Salta Province, targeting completion of a Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) by Q3 2025. Since its March 2023 listing on the TSX Venture Exchange, the company has focused exploration on three key assets in the region, with Rio Grande emerging as its strategic priority.
The project boasts a substantial inferred resource of 4.7 million tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) at an average grade of 525 mg/L, placing it among the higher-grade brine projects globally. Not yet developed, the site benefits from the absence of royalties or restrictive agreements, offering NOA operational flexibility. Engineering firm Hatch is conducting the PEA, which outlines a phased plan to develop a 40,000 tpa LCE production facility.
To minimize early-stage technical and operational risks, NOA has opted for conventional brine evaporation rather than more complex DLE methods. With its resource scale and development potential, Rio Grande is positioned to play a significant role in supporting global energy transition efforts.
Disclaimer: DLE Weekly is original content by BICHEM Research under Bichemical Technology Limited. Sharing requires retaining the original link. All BICHEM Research content is protected, and reproduction, distribution, or publication in any form is prohibited without prior written permission. For authorization, contact info@bichemcial.org. The information is for reference only and not direct decision-making advice. Users are responsible for their own decisions, and BICHEM Research assumes no liability for any outcomes.