A definitive feasibility study (DFS) for Phase 1 of ASX-listed Lake Resources' Kachi lithium brine project, in Argentina, has shown "strong and competitive economics", CEO David Dickson says.
The DFS estimates a post-tax net present value of $2.3-billion and an internal rate of return of 21%.
The Phase 1 development is estimated to require an initial capital expenditure of $1.38-billion.
Kachi's total resource is estimated at 10.6-million tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent and the project has a projected mine life of 25 years.
Phase 1 is expected to deliver 25 000 t/y of lithium.
“Demand growth is expected to continue with strong forecasts for the next two decades – at the time our top tier project comes into production. Kachi will be producing a high-quality, high-specification battery-grade product to match this increasing demand,” says Dickson.
Going forward, Lake Resources will initiate a strategic partner process for the Kachi project; start negotiations with potential offtake partners to secure binding offtake agreement; submit an environmental- and social-impact assessment in early 2024; and select a front-end engineering design and engineering, procurement and construction management contractor for the project's process plant.
The company expects to make a final investment decision in the first quarter of 2025.