This achievement marks the beginning of Covalent Lithium’s fully integrated mine-to-refinery operation, which will supply high-quality lithium hydroxide to global markets, including the rapidly expanding electric vehicle sector.

The milestone follows years of planning, engineering, and construction, and reflects the capability, dedication and collaboration of the Covalent Lithium team and its partners. From early concept development to the commencement of mining at Mt Holland in 2022, concentrate production in late 2023, and completion of refinery construction earlier this year, the journey has been defined by shared vision and technical excellence.

The Kwinana refinery is expected to ramp up to its nameplate capacity of 50,000 tonnes per annum over the next 18 months. At full production, the operation will support the manufacture of batteries for approximately one million electric vehicles annually.

This achievement also supports broader national and state strategic objectives, including the Australian Government’s Future Made in Australia initiative and Western Australia’s Battery and Critical Minerals Strategy. By strengthening local critical minerals processing capabilities, Covalent Lithium is helping to advance Australia’s position in global clean energy supply chains.

Covalent Lithium is a 50:50 joint venture between Wesfarmers Limited and SQM.