Rock Tech Chooses Worley as EPCM Partner for Guben Lithium Converter

Rock Tech Lithium Inc. has announced its partnership with Worley Limited, a renowned global professional services company, to construct Europe's first lithium converter. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in advancing the project efficiently. Worley, with its deep engineering and construction expertise and a global workforce of 50,000, has successfully delivered more than 1,000 projects across various continents, notably in major German chemical clusters. Their extensive experience in managing complex industrial facilities, including lithium projects, positions them uniquely to support this groundbreaking initiative by Rock Tech Lithium Inc.

Historically, lithium converters have been predominantly operational in China and Australia. The new facility in Guben, Brandenburg, boasting a capacity of 24,000 tons of lithium hydroxide annually, will play a crucial role in bolstering Europe's resilient battery value chain. By 2030, half of the materials used will be sourced from recycled batteries, underscoring the project's sustainability. The total investment outlay is estimated at approximately 800 million euros, supported by 100 million euros in funding from state and federal governments, ensuring competitiveness in the international arena.

Rock Tech is poised to initiate the execution phase of the converter project within the current fiscal year, contingent upon finalizing the necessary financing. This milestone follows the successful acquisition of full permit approvals from the Brandenburg State Environmental Agency in May 2024, marking a pivotal step forward. The project has also achieved a significant milestone with the completion of comprehensive basic engineering through a Front-End Loading 3 (FEL3) study.

 With the technical specifications for construction and commissioning now fully defined, the project team has commenced strategic planning for the subsequent phases, focusing on the efficient ramp-up and operational management of the forthcoming converter facility.

The EPCM (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction Management) selection process, led by Accenture, spanned over six months. Worley emerged as the chosen firm among numerous competitors, based on their strong track record in handling complex projects, technical proficiency, and extensive experience in executing projects within Germany.

Kerstin Wedemann, Chief Legal & Operations Officer, expressed enthusiasm about deepening the relationship with Worley, emphasizing confidence in achieving success for their project. Recognizing Worley as a renowned global project delivery partner, she highlighted their comprehensive service offerings up to commercial operation. The international team's efforts will be bolstered by Worley's Germany office, ensuring tailored support for the project's specific requirements at a German site. This collaboration underscores the strategic alignment between the parties in delivering effective and integrated project solutions.