Electra Battery Materials facility in OntarioImage: Electra Battery MaterialsThe Canadian government is providing total funding of 20 million Canadian dollars (currently around 12.6 million euros) for eligible project costs. This investment aims to support the completion and commissioning of Electra Battery Materials’ refinery in Temiskaming Shores, Ontario, as announced by the company. Earlier in 2024, the Canadian government had already approved a grant of five million dollars for Electra.In the recently signed agreement, Electra describes the funding as ‘a significant milestone in advancing Electra’s refinery project.’ Construction of the facility is scheduled for completion in the second quarter of 2027. Once commissioned, the refinery is expected to produce approximately 5,120 tonnes of battery-grade cobalt annually in 2027, with plans to increase this to 6,500 tonnes later.The company anticipates requiring around 150 to 200 workers during the construction and start-up phase, including direct employees and contractors. In ongoing operations, the facility is expected to create around 60 permanent jobs, as well as over 100 additional indirect jobs in the region.“At full capacity, the facility will represent a significant global source of refined cobalt, a critical input for defence systems, consumer electronics and advanced energy storage technologies,” Electra states. Initially, however, the focus will be on the battery sector: a large portion of the production will be sold to LG Energy Solutions under an offtake agreement announced earlier this year.“Electra has assembled the assets, partnerships, and leadership required to build a strategically important business in the North American battery materials supply chain, and I have strong confidence in the Company’s ability to deliver,” said David Stetson, Chairman of the Board of Electra. “I also want to recognize the support of the Government of Canada for this important project.”“Canada has the critical minerals the world wants – and we can turn those resources into good jobs, stronger industry, and more secure supply chains,” added Tim Hodgson, Canada’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources. “By investing in the Temiskaming Shores Facility, we are investing in Northern Ontario, in the clean technology transition, and in building Canada strong.”electrabmc.com