Core Viewpoint - Redwood Energy, a subsidiary of Redwood Materials, is launching an energy storage business utilizing retired electric vehicle batteries to support various enterprises, starting with AI data centers [3][4]. Group 1: Business Expansion and Strategy - Redwood Materials, founded by former Tesla CTO JD Straubel, has raised $2 billion in private funding and focuses on recycling lithium-ion batteries to create sustainable battery materials, aiming to build a circular supply chain [6]. - The company has expanded from recycling battery production waste to producing cathode materials, with projected revenues of $200 million in 2024, primarily from battery materials sales [7]. - Redwood Energy aims to convert retired electric vehicle batteries into modular energy storage systems (ESS) to meet the energy demands of AI data centers while balancing the supply and demand of renewable energy [9][17]. Group 2: Market Potential and Trends - The electric vehicle market has seen rapid growth, with a record 1.3 million electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles sold in the U.S. last year, indicating a future influx of retired batteries [22]. - By 2045, the global battery recycling market is expected to reach $52 billion, with the second-life battery industry projected to grow to $5.2 billion by 2035 [25]. - The ESS market is timely, as data centers supporting AI and ChatGPT are placing significant pressure on the grid, prompting the search for alternative energy sources [17]. Group 3: Technical and Operational Insights - Redwood Energy's microgrid for AI infrastructure company Crusoe has a power generation capacity of 12 MW and energy storage capacity of 63 MWh, with energy costs lower than traditional grids [13]. - The company processes approximately 20 GWh of batteries annually, equivalent to the battery capacity of 250,000 electric vehicles, and holds a 90% market share in North America's lithium-ion battery recycling [9][27]. - The recycling process involves safely storing, testing, and diagnosing batteries to determine their suitability for second-life applications, ensuring that those with usable energy capacity are converted into storage batteries [19][21].

Core Insights - Aqua Metals, Inc. is showcasing its innovative lithium battery recycling technology at NAATBatt's Eighth Annual Workshop, emphasizing its scalable, cost-effective, and safer alternative to traditional hydro recycling methods [1][3][6] Company Overview - Aqua Metals operates an Innovation Center in the Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center, producing battery-grade lithium carbonate, nickel, and cobalt products at a commercial pilot scale [2] - The company claims its recycled lithium carbonate output is among the highest in North America from a true closed-loop battery recycling process [2] Technology and Benefits - The proprietary AquaRefining™ technology offers a novel solution that enhances worker safety, economic efficiency, and environmental performance compared to traditional hydro-based recycling processes [3][4] - This clean recycling technology supports the reshoring of critical minerals processing, contributing to American job growth and economic resilience [4] Event Details - The exclusive tour of Aqua Metals' facility will take place on July 31, 2025, providing workshop participants with insights into advanced lithium battery recycling operations [1][6] - The NAATBatt Annual Workshop will gather industry leaders to discuss innovations in lithium battery reuse, recycling, and market development [6] Product Highlights - The facility has produced various products, including battery-grade lithium carbonate, cobalt metal, nickel metal, and mixed hydroxide precipitate (MHP) [9] - The pilot plant has accumulated over 4,000 hours of operational runtime, showcasing significant reductions in waste streams and improved economic efficiencies [9]

Core Viewpoint - American Battery Technology Company (ABTC) has been awarded the "Outstanding Contribution to Recycling & Reuse in Battery Materials" at the Fastmarkets Voltas Awards, highlighting its competitive edge in battery recycling technology and commitment to enhancing economic resilience and energy security in the U.S. [1][2][13] Group 1: Award Recognition - ABTC was recognized among 20 global competitors for its advancements in battery recycling technology [2][3] - The award emphasizes the company's role in reshaping the battery raw materials supply chain and promoting sustainability [2][12] Group 2: Technological Advancements - ABTC has developed innovative recycling technologies and launched commercial operations at its first lithium-ion battery recycling facility [3][6] - The facility employs a closed-loop system that minimizes waste, reduces water consumption, and limits air pollution [3][5] Group 3: Recycling Process - The recycling operation consists of two phases: demanufacturing and hydrometallurgy, producing valuable products such as copper, aluminum, and battery-grade lithium hydroxide [4][5] - This integrated process enhances recovery rates and reduces operating costs by removing impurities early in the recycling process [5] Group 4: Future Expansion - ABTC is constructing a second recycling facility designed to process 100,000 tonnes annually, increasing its recycling capacity fivefold [6] - This expansion is supported by a $144 million investment from the U.S. Department of Energy [6] Group 5: Workforce Development - The company collaborates with local universities to develop the workforce, preparing future engineers and scientists through internships and hands-on projects [7][11] - This initiative contributes to job creation and strengthens expertise in critical mineral manufacturing and recycling [10]

Core Viewpoint - The establishment of Green Metals Battery Innovations, LLC, a joint venture between LG Energy Solution and Toyota Tsusho Corporation, aims to enhance battery recycling efforts and promote a circular economy in the battery supply chain [1][5][9]. Company Overview - LG Energy Solution is a leading global manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries, with over 69,600 patents and a commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 [7]. Joint Venture Details - The joint venture will construct a pre-processing plant in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, to extract black mass from battery production scrap [1][9]. - The facility is expected to commence operations in 2026, with a processing capacity of 13,500 tons of scrap annually, equivalent to over 40,000 automotive batteries [3][9]. Recycling Process - The pre-processing plant will dismantle and shred battery production scrap to extract valuable raw metals such as nickel, cobalt, and lithium [2][4]. - The extracted black mass will undergo a post-processing stage to recover raw materials for new battery production, aiming to establish a closed-loop system [4][9]. Environmental Impact - The collaboration seeks to drive down carbon emissions through circular economy initiatives, enhancing the recycling infrastructure in North America [5][6].

Company Overview - Aqua Metals, Inc. is a pioneer in sustainable lithium-ion battery recycling, utilizing its patented AquaRefining™ technology [2] - The company is focused on commercializing non-polluting recycling processes that close the loop on critical minerals for clean energy technologies [2] - Aqua Metals is headquartered in Reno, Nevada, with facilities located in the Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center [2] Upcoming Events - Aqua Metals will hold its 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders on July 22, 2025, at 7 a.m. PT [1] - Stockholders of record as of June 17, 2025, are entitled to attend and participate in the meeting [1] - Voting instructions are available at https://www.proxyvote.com [1] Communication Channels - Aqua Metals utilizes its investor relations website and social media platforms such as X, Threads, LinkedIn, and YouTube for disclosing material non-public information [3] - The company aims to comply with its disclosure obligations under Regulation FD through these channels [3]

Core Insights - Electra Battery Materials Corporation and the Three Fires Group have made significant progress on the Aki Battery Recycling joint venture, marking the first Indigenous-led lithium-ion battery recycling initiative in Canada [1][2] - The Aki venture aims to create a low-emission, circular solution for battery waste management, enhancing domestic supply chains and reducing reliance on offshore processing [1][5] Joint Venture Overview - The Aki Battery Recycling joint venture was launched in 2024, focusing on establishing a First Nations-led lithium-ion battery recycling company [2] - Aki will process end-of-life lithium-ion batteries and manufacturing scrap in a state-of-the-art facility, producing high-grade copper, aluminum, and steel products [2][3] Black Mass Production - The pre-processing facility will generate a high-value intermediate product known as black mass, which contains critical minerals such as lithium, nickel, cobalt, manganese, and graphite [3][12] - Black mass will be processed at Electra's hydrometallurgical refinery, facilitating a localized closed-loop supply chain for battery manufacturers [3][12] Leadership and Expertise - Reggie George has been appointed President of Aki, bringing over a decade of experience in project management and capital raising [4] - Andre Marais has been appointed Director of Strategy & Corporate Development, with more than 15 years of experience in technical and commercial roles [4] Indigenous Economic Participation - Aki Battery Recycling emphasizes Indigenous economic participation in the battery supply chain, aiming to create long-term benefits for First Nations communities [5][6] - The venture aligns with traditional values of stewardship and responsibility for the land, promoting a regenerative model of economic growth [7] Facility and Operations - The proposed facility will recycle enough lithium-ion battery scrap to supply up to 100,000 new electric vehicles annually [9] - Aki is evaluating prospective sites for the facility, focusing on locations near lithium-ion battery manufacturers and First Nations lands [8][10] Funding and Feasibility - Aki is engaged in discussions with government partners to secure funding for a bankable feasibility study on the pre-processing facility [11] - The project aligns with Canadian funding streams that prioritize clean technology and Indigenous-led infrastructure [11] Environmental Impact - The integration of Aki's black mass production with Electra's refining process aims to create one of the lowest carbon footprint recycling supply chains globally [12][13] - The venture addresses a critical supply chain gap in Ontario, which currently lacks battery recycling capabilities despite projected annual battery scrap generation of up to 30,000 tonnes by 2030 [10] Market Positioning - Aki will operate predominantly on a tolling fee basis through long-term contracts, ensuring stable returns independent of commodity prices [13][14] - The venture aims to strengthen Canada's capacity to retain and reuse critical minerals, supporting domestic industrial growth and reducing carbon emissions related to material transportation [14]

Core Viewpoint - Electra Battery Materials Corporation has completed a feasibility level Class 3 Engineering Study for a modular battery recycling facility, which will enhance North America's battery materials supply chain and energy security [1][4]. Facility and Process - The new facility will recover lithium, nickel, cobalt, manganese, and graphite from lithium-ion battery manufacturing scrap and end-of-life batteries using a proprietary hydrometallurgical process validated through a year-long pilot program [2][5]. - The next phase will involve operating the recycling process under continuous conditions to simulate commercial-scale throughput, funded in part by Natural Resources Canada [3]. Strategic Integration - The cobalt recovered will directly feed into Electra's adjacent cobalt sulfate refinery, which is under advanced construction, thereby creating a closed-loop supply chain for battery materials [4][5]. - Electra's partnership with Aki Battery Recycling ensures a reliable supply of black mass feedstock, supporting both near-term and long-term commercial ambitions [6][13]. Collaboration and Market Engagement - Electra plans to present the engineering study results to downstream partners, including battery manufacturers and OEMs, to determine the optimal scale and timing of the facility [7]. - The study was completed in partnership with Green Li-ion, leading to proprietary improvements that enhance Electra's competitive position in the recycling value chain [8]. National Security and Strategic Minerals - Electra supports North American energy independence amid global competition, particularly against China's dominance in critical mineral processing [9][10]. - The integrated black mass refining program aligns with strategic priorities in Canada and the U.S., emphasizing the importance of cobalt in various applications, including electric vehicles and military-grade batteries [10][11]. Economic and Community Impact - The collaboration with Aki Battery Recycling not only secures a sustainable supply of raw materials but also provides economic benefits to Indigenous communities [6][13][14]. - Electra is committed to building a resilient and inclusive battery materials supply chain in North America, aligning innovation with sustainability and Indigenous economic development [7][14].

Core Insights - Aqua Metals, Inc. has received a Notice of Allowance for a patent that enhances its AquaRefining™ intellectual property portfolio, crucial for its global expansion strategy [1][4][5] Patent Details - The patent application, filed in January 2022, is based on extensive R&D and covers key innovations in Aqua Metals' lithium battery recycling technology [2][3] - The technology allows for efficient recovery of battery-grade lithium carbonate, nickel, and cobalt, utilizing a novel hydrometallurgical process [2][3] Environmental and Economic Benefits - AquaRefining™ technology offers estimated cost savings of approximately $1,100 per metric ton of black mass input compared to traditional methods [3] - The process eliminates sodium sulfate waste, generates negligible CO₂ emissions, and creates a safer workplace environment [3] Strategic Implications - The patent allowance is a significant milestone for Aqua Metals, enabling the company to pursue licensing and joint venture opportunities with partners aligned with its vision for a domestic battery materials supply chain [4][5] - The company is actively seeking additional patents and is in discussions with multiple potential licensees and joint venture partners globally [4][5] Company Overview - Aqua Metals is focused on sustainable lithium-ion battery recycling, aiming to close the loop on critical minerals for clean energy technologies [6]

Core Viewpoint - American Battery Technology Company (ABTC) has reported a significant increase in quarterly revenue, tripling its revenue in the third fiscal quarter of 2025, driven by advancements in battery recycling and lithium manufacturing technologies [1]. Battery Recycling Highlights - ABTC has implemented multi-shift, 24/7 operations at its battery recycling facility, more than doubling the mass of battery material recycled compared to the previous quarter [6]. - Total revenues from the sale of recycled battery materials reached $1.0 million, approximately tripling from the previous quarter [6]. Primary Lithium Manufacturing Highlights - ABTC has developed technologies for manufacturing lithium hydroxide from Nevada-based claystone and has constructed a pilot facility that successfully produced large quantities of lithium hydroxide during the reported quarter [6]. - The company is negotiating long-term commercial offtake agreements for the lithium hydroxide product, with a designed commercial scale lithium refinery planned to produce 30,000 tonnes per year [6]. Financial Highlights - Cash cost of goods sold for the quarter was $2.3 million, a slight increase from $2.1 million in the previous quarter, indicating a significant improvement in gross cash margin with revenue increasing by approximately 200% [6]. - Company reimbursements from government grants increased to $2.0 million, compared to $1.3 million during the same period of the prior year [7]. - As of March 31, 2025, the company had total cash on hand of $7.8 million, with $2.8 million available and $5 million restricted for compliance [7].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company ended the quarter with total cash of approximately $1.6 million [15] - Net loss for the three months ended March 31, 2025, was approximately $8.3 million, or a negative $0.03 per share, compared to a net loss of $5.5 million, or a negative $0.05 per share for the same period in 2024 [19] - Plant operations decreased approximately $1.5 million, or 67.2%, compared to the same period in 2024, primarily due to reductions in payroll and related costs [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved key technical milestones, including product line expansion with initial samples of nickel carbonate and mixed hydroxide precipitate [4] - A successful engineering analysis and lab demonstration for lithium recovery from LFP batteries was completed, which could double lithium carbonate output [5][6] - General and administrative expenses decreased by approximately $619,000, or 27.2%, primarily due to payroll reductions [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is adapting its strategy to align with current market conditions characterized by lower lithium prices and tighter capital markets [7] - The industry is experiencing a phase of consolidation and increased partnerships as companies navigate challenging market conditions [33][58] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on building a low-cost, resilient domestic battery materials supply chain and adapting its product portfolio to market needs [3][11] - A strategic decision was made to sell property to retire debt and generate cash reserves, allowing for evaluation of more cost-efficient locations [7][15] - The company aims to build its first commercial arc while actively engaging with potential supply, offtake, and funding partners [9][11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to survive and thrive in the evolving critical minerals industry, emphasizing the importance of adaptability [26][34] - There is optimism regarding future government support for domestic supply chains, although clarity on policy and funding is still pending [42][43] Other Important Information - The company is transitioning leadership with Eric West taking over as CFO, ensuring continuity and stability during the transition [10][12] - The company is actively engaging with potential partners to test the quality of new materials produced [48] Q&A Session Questions and Answers Question: Can you walk me through the Sierra Arc sale process and how much runway it gives you? - Management highlighted that selling the Sierra Arc allows for significant savings and provides meaningful cash runway to develop commercial relationships [26][28] Question: Has there been an uptick in customer inbounds due to recent tariff announcements? - Management noted increased engagement with various industry players as companies seek to navigate the current market dynamics [32][33] Question: Can you discuss the opportunity related to product line expansion and LFP recycling? - Management emphasized that advancements are driven by market responsiveness and optimization to improve plant economics [37][39] Question: What is the status of government discussions regarding domestic supply chains? - Management confirmed ongoing engagement with government agencies, with expectations for more clarity on policy and funding in the coming months [42][43]