Standard Lithium and Equinor Finalize $225 Million Grant from the U.S. Department of Energy for the South West Arkansas Project

Core Points - Standard Lithium Ltd. and Equinor have secured a US$225 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to support the South West Arkansas project [1][2] - The SWA project is anticipated to be one of the first commercial-scale Direct Lithium Extraction facilities globally, aiming to produce 45,000 tonnes per annum of lithium carbonate [3][4] - The project is a partnership with Standard Lithium holding 55% ownership and Equinor holding 45% [3] Project Details - The SWA project will be developed in two phases, each producing 22,500 tonnes of lithium carbonate [3] - A Definitive Feasibility Study and Front-End Engineering Design are currently in progress, with a Final Investment Decision targeted by the end of 2025 and production expected to commence in 2028 [4] - The project will undergo an Environmental Assessment as part of the grant conditions, with completion expected this year [5] Community Impact - The project is projected to create approximately 100 direct, long-term jobs and 300 construction jobs, with a commitment to hire at least 40% of the operations workforce locally [6] - Additional benefits to the local community will include infrastructure improvements, healthcare initiatives, educational partnerships, and workforce development programs [6] Company Background - Standard Lithium focuses on sustainable development of high-grade lithium-brine properties in the U.S., utilizing Direct Lithium Extraction technology [7] - The company is advancing multiple projects, including the South West Arkansas project and the Phase 1A project in partnership with LANXESS Corporation [7]