Chevron Is Following ExxonMobil by Entering the Lithium Sector

Core Insights - Major oil companies Chevron and ExxonMobil are recognizing the decline of fossil fuels and are investing in lower-carbon energy sources [1] - Both companies are expanding into lithium production, essential for electric vehicle batteries, with Chevron following Exxon's lead in acquiring land in Arkansas [2][4] Group 1: Lithium Investments - Chevron has signed deals to acquire 125,000 net acres in Northeast Texas and Southwest Arkansas, targeting the lithium-rich Smackover Formation [4] - The company plans to utilize a direct lithium extraction (DLE) process, leveraging its existing subsurface and drilling capabilities despite lacking prior lithium production experience [5] - ExxonMobil has already entered the lithium sector by acquiring over 120,000 acres in Arkansas for approximately $100 million and aims to start commercial lithium production by 2027 [6] Group 2: Production Goals and Partnerships - ExxonMobil has set a goal to produce enough lithium by 2030 to supply the manufacturing needs of over 1 million electric vehicles annually [7] - The company has begun signing supply agreements, including a nonbinding deal with LG Chem for 100,000 metric tons of lithium carbonate [7] - Exxon is also exploring lithium investment opportunities in Chile in collaboration with SLB [8] Group 3: Broader Energy Strategy - Both Chevron and Exxon are maintaining significant investments in oil and gas while gradually increasing their focus on lower-carbon energy [9] - Exxon plans to invest $140 billion in major projects through 2030, aiming for an output of 5.4 million barrels of oil equivalent per day [9] - The companies are allocating substantial portions of their capital expenditures to lower-carbon energy, with Exxon targeting up to $30 billion and Chevron about 10% of its $15 billion annual budget [10] Group 4: Future Outlook - Chevron and Exxon are strategically positioning themselves to meet the global demand for lower-carbon energy sources, aiming to build profitable businesses that enhance shareholder value [11]