Core Points - Electra Battery Materials Corporation has signed a term sheet for C$17.5 million in funding from Invest Ontario to support the construction of its cobalt sulfate refinery in Temiskaming Shores, which will be the first facility in North America dedicated to producing battery-grade cobalt sulfate [1][2] - The refinery is expected to produce 6,500 tonnes of battery-grade cobalt sulfate annually, sufficient to support the production of up to 1 million electric vehicles per year, thereby reducing reliance on foreign-controlled supply chains [2][3] - The total estimated investment for the refinery construction is C$100 million, with the new funding replacing a previously announced US$20 million strategic corporate investment [4] Company Developments - The refinery will create over 50 new jobs and is expected to deliver long-term economic benefits, reinforcing Ontario's leadership in electric vehicle battery manufacturing [3] - Electra is also planning to produce other battery materials and has commenced a feasibility study for a battery recycling refinery adjacent to the cobalt refinery [5] - The company is targeting a ~60% reduction in convertible debt and a US$30 million equity raise as part of its financing plan [4] Industry Context - The project supports Ontario's clean energy transition and aims to establish a domestic supply of battery-grade cobalt, which is critical for energy security and the global energy transition [2][3] - With over 90% of the global cobalt sulfate supply currently coming from China, Electra aims to be one of the few producers without ties to Foreign Entities of Concern, thereby enhancing the resiliency of the North American supply chain [2][5]
Electra Signs Term Sheet with Ontario for C$17.5 Million as Part of C$100 Million Cobalt Refinery Investment