Summary
- A new lithium refinery is being built in Oklahoma by Stardust Power, targeting the EV battery market and utilizing the state’s renewable energy profile
- Oklahoma lawmakers are considering a statewide ban on new renewable energy projects, potentially making it the first state to impose such a ban
- Despite pushback, Oklahoma’s renewable energy sector has been growing, with renewables covering 45% of in-state electricity generation in 2023
- Stardust Power announced plans to establish a lithium refinery in Oklahoma, with a $257 million incentive package from state and federal funds
- The project aims to become a leading supplier of battery-grade lithium, representing a confluence of renewable energy resources and fossil energy presence in Oklahoma.
Article
In Oklahoma, a new lithium refinery is being developed by Stardust Power, targeting the EV battery market and utilizing the state’s renewable energy profile. At the same time, lawmakers in Oklahoma are considering a ban on new renewable energy projects, which could make it the first state to impose such a ban. Despite this, the availability of wind power has attracted clean tech manufacturers to Oklahoma, with renewable energy covering 45% of in-state electricity generation in 2023.
Stardust Power plans to invest over $1 billion in the lithium refinery project in Muskogee, with the company emphasizing its commitment to limiting its carbon footprint and supporting American jobs. The project is eligible for a $257 million incentive package and potential federal grants and incentives. However, the project’s future is uncertain under the Trump administration, which froze federal grants and disbursements, impacting projects in certain states represented by a coalition of attorneys general.
The two-phase project aims to establish a lithium refinery with a capacity of up to 55,116 tons per year, contributing to the growth of sustainable energy in Oklahoma. Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell highlights the economic benefits and job creation opportunities associated with the project, positioning Oklahoma as a leader in sustainable energy. The project’s reliance on the oil and gas industry for raw lithium and new direct lithium extraction technology raises questions about sustainability and environmental impact.
As the project faces potential challenges from the Trump administration’s policies, its success will depend on various factors in Washington, DC. Stardust’s use of briny wastewater from drilling and geothermal wells for lithium production presents both advantages and concerns. The integration of renewable energy sources into the refinery’s operations reflects a commitment to sustainability and the energy transition. Ultimately, the outcome of the project will impact Oklahoma’s position in the evolving landscape of renewable energy production and supply chains.
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