ASX-listed lithium producer Core Lithium recently began preparing its first shipment from the Finniss Lithium mine at Darwin Port.
About 15,000 dry metric tonnes of direct shipping ore (DSO) from the company’s Finniss Lithium Project are being loaded onto the Rossana ship, which is bound for Fangcheng China. The DSO exports will be used to manufacture lithium batteries used to power electric vehicles and renewable energy storage.
Core Lithium has signed offtake agreements with Ganfeng Lithium and Sichuan Yahua to deliver 75,000 tonnes per annum of lithium concentrate to each company over four years.
“This a major milestone not only for Core Lithium, but for the renewable and critical minerals industry. Today’s achievement is proof the Northern Territory is the place to be when it comes to opportunities for a greener future and a stronger economy,” Chief Minister Natasha Fyles said.
The $89 million Finniss Lithium Project is expected to mine 16 million tonnes of lithium-bearing ore over the life of the mine, which is expected to be at least 12 years.
Mining operations at the project began in October 2022, making it the first new mine to begin operations in the Northern Territory in more than a decade.
“This is a globally significant project for lithium battery production, which will power the future through electric vehicles and renewable energy storage. And the best part is it’s happening right here in the Northern Territory, meaning local workers, local suppliers and contractors will all benefit financially,” said Minister for Mining and Industry Nicole Manison.
The project is expected to employ about 300 people and begin producing spodumene concrete in the first half of 2023.
“Core has made good progress during 2022 to transition from a mine developer to lithium producer. In 2023 we will continue this transition and the work required to build a good quality operating business in the Northern Territory,” said Core Lithium’s Chief Executive Officer Gareth Manderson.
