Electra Launches Study for 15,000 t/y Nickel and 1,000 t/y Cobalt Refinery
ELBM•Electra has begun an engineering study for a proposed southeastern U.S. nickel refinery targeting 15,000 t/y of nickel sulfate and metal and 1,000 t/y of cobalt metal. The study will outline site selection, capital requirements, operating parameters and timelines to guide development alongside its Q2 2027 cobalt sulfate refinery commissioning.
1. Engineering Study Kickoff
Electra has engaged engineering consultants to advance a development study for a potential battery-grade nickel refinery in the southeastern United States. The work will assess technical requirements, capital intensity and development pathways building on its North American cobalt sulfate expertise.
2. Targeted Capacity and Project Scope
The proposed refinery aims for approximately 15,000 tonnes per year of nickel sulfate and metal and 1,000 tonnes per year of cobalt metal using conventional hydrometallurgical technologies. The study will define site criteria, capital estimates, operating parameters, development timelines and preferred feedstocks sourced through deep-water port infrastructure.
3. Strategic Context and Next Steps
This study supports Electra’s phased strategy to onshore critical minerals refining and mitigate North America’s reliance on offshore nickel capacity. Results will inform future investment decisions as the company advances construction of its primary cobalt sulfate refinery, on track to commission in Q2 2027.
