Smackover Lithium Announces Positive Definitive Feasibility Study Results for its South West Arkansas Project

Core Viewpoint - The Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) for the Smackover Lithium project indicates robust economic potential, with a projected unlevered pre-tax Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 20.2% and a Net Present Value (NPV) of $1.7 billion, confirming the project's status as a world-class asset for lithium production in the United States [4][6][9]. Project Overview - Smackover Lithium is a joint venture between Standard Lithium (55% ownership) and Equinor (45%), focused on developing a lithium extraction facility in southwestern Arkansas, covering approximately 30,000 acres of brine leases [5][64]. - The project aims to produce 22,500 tonnes per annum (tpa) of battery-quality lithium carbonate, marking the first commercial lithium production in the Smackover Formation, with initial production targeted for 2028 [6][17]. Economic Highlights - The DFS estimates an unlevered pre-tax NPV of $1.7 billion and an IRR of 20.2%, based on a lithium carbonate price of $22,400 per tonne [6][9]. - Average cash operating costs are projected at $4,516 per tonne, with all-in costs estimated at $5,924 per tonne [31][33]. - Total capital expenditures (CAPEX) are estimated at $1.45 billion, including a 12.3% contingency [6][27]. Resource Assessment - The total Measured and Indicated Resource is estimated at 1,177,000 tonnes lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) at an average concentration of 442 mg/L, with Proven Reserves of 447,000 tonnes LCE at an average concentration of 481 mg/L [39][44][50]. - The project has a minimum operating life of 20 years, with potential for significant expansion based on resource modeling [6][8]. Development Timeline - The project is targeting a Final Investment Decision (FID) by the end of 2025, with construction expected to commence in 2026 and first production in 2028 [17][61]. Environmental and Regulatory Considerations - The project has received a $225 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy, necessitating compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), with an environmental assessment already initiated [57][59]. - The project has strong support from local communities and government entities, enhancing its prospects for timely permitting and development [59].