European Chemical Industry News & Insights

AMG Opens Europe's First Lithium Hydroxide Refinery

At a glance
  • The refinery's first module has an annual capacity of 20,000 tons of battery-grade lithium hydroxide.
  • AMG plans to expand production to 100,000 metric tons annually by 2030.
  • The projected demand for lithium in European batteries is 700,000 metric tons by 2030.
  • AMG's potential production represents 14% of the European market by 2030.

Refinery Opening

AMG Critical Materials N.V. has opened its lithium hydroxide refinery in Bitterfeld-Wolfen, Saxony-Anhalt, Germany. This facility is the first of its kind in Europe and is part of AMG Lithium B.V., which oversees all of AMG’s lithium activities.

Production Capacity

The refinery's first module has an annual capacity of 20,000 tons of battery-grade lithium hydroxide, sufficient for around 500,000 electric vehicles (EVs). AMG plans to expand this capacity to 100,000 metric tons annually by 2030, depending on market conditions.

Market Demand

According to a recent Benchmark forecast, the total demand for lithium in batteries in Europe is projected to reach 700,000 metric tons by 2030. If AMG achieves its target production, it would represent 14% of the projected European market.

Strategic Importance

The refinery aims to secure the supply of lithium, a critical raw material for EV batteries, contributing to the European Critical Raw Materials Act. This initiative supports greater independence for raw materials and critical materials in Europe.

Technological Development

AMG is also focused on developing advanced technology and materials to support the market for next-generation, sulfur-based all-solid-state batteries, collaborating closely with key industry players.