Electra Battery Materials Corporation has completed its early works program at its cobalt refinery north of Toronto, marking a key preparatory milestone ahead of full-scale construction. Supported by strategic government funding, the program focused on site-level activities to streamline mobilization of the full construction team and advance long-lead procurement.
Central to the initiative was progress on the solvent extraction (SX) facility, which is critical for producing high-purity, battery-grade cobalt sulfate. Site work included pouring concrete foundations for SX tanks, installing processing equipment, erecting structural roofing, and upgrading power distribution, lighting, and septic systems. Concurrently, engineering and procurement efforts moved forward to ensure the refinery is fully prepared when construction resumes.
“This milestone brings us closer to resuming full construction of the refinery,” said Mark Trevisiol, Vice President, Projects at Electra. “By completing these preparatory works and advancing long-lead procurement, we are positioning the refinery for efficient and timely execution once construction resumes.”
Electra’s refinery project is the only one in North America designed to produce battery-grade cobalt sulfate at scale. Through the integration of advanced hydrometallurgical processing and pursuit of low-carbon production pathways, the company aims to offer a cleaner, traceable alternative to overseas supply chains and support the growing domestic battery market.
“We are positioning Electra to be a foundational part of North America’s energy future,” said Trent Mell, Electra CEO. “This milestone reflects disciplined execution and steady progress toward delivering a reliable supply of cobalt for the North American market and long-term value creation for all stakeholders.”
Electra is developing North America’s only cobalt sulfate refinery as part of its phased strategy to onshore critical minerals refining and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers. Future growth plans include nickel refining and battery recycling projects designed to support the expanding electric vehicle and energy storage markets.
