Episode 316

Securing 80ktpa of Spodumene, Extracting Silver from Solar Panels | Lithium Universe's Iggy Tan

February 11, 202632m 20s

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Show Notes

Lithium Universe CEO Iggy Tan provides a timely update on the company’s lithium refinery strategy, project financing path, and new technology initiatives as lithium markets recover.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction
(03:23) Norah Offtake Agreement
(07:26) Financing And Lithium Price Recovery
(10:10) Brownsville U.S. Refinery Plan
(13:52) Quebec Project Priority
(15:31) Solar Recycling And Silver Tech
(18:30) Demo Plant Strategy
(20:28) Silver Demand And Government Support
(23:14) Near-Term Catalysts
(24:36) Nigeria Feedstock Supply
(28:34) CapEx And Funding Path
(30:59) Outlook And Closing

We (Howard and Rodney) discuss Lithium Universe’s binding 10-year (plus 5-year evergreen) feedstock agreement with Norah Mining Limited, securing 80,000 tonnes per annum of spodumene concentrate with a partner discount that could materially strengthen refinery margins and improve financing discussions. For merchant lithium converters, feedstock security is often the critical hurdle — this agreement directly addresses that risk.

We also review the company’s plan to replicate its Quebec refinery model in Brownsville, Texas, positioning the project within the U.S. critical minerals supply chain with port access, established infrastructure, and permitting advantages.

Beyond lithium conversion, we examine Lithium Universe’s photovoltaic (solar panel) recycling and silver extraction technology, which uses microwave separation and electrochemical recovery to produce high-purity silver while reducing reagent consumption. With silver now recognized as a critical metal, this adds a potential second value stream to the business.

Finally, we talk through the lithium price rebound, how current carbonate prices compare to the company’s DFS assumptions, and what that means for project economics, partnerships, and next milestones.

Topics covered:

• Lithium refinery development in Quebec and Texas
• Long-term spodumene supply agreements
• Lithium price recovery and project economics
• Battery metals and critical minerals strategy
• Solar panel recycling and silver recovery technology
• Financing, JV partners, and near-term catalysts

As always, our aim is to provide a clear, balanced discussion of the strategy, risks, and opportunities shaping Lithium Universe’s next phase.