Controlled Thermal Resources Holdings Inc. (CTR) is a U.S.-based company leading the way in sustainable lithium production and renewable energy. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Imperial County, California, CTR specializes in integrating direct lithium extraction with geothermal power generation. This innovative approach allows the company to produce battery-grade lithium products while minimizing environmental impact. CTR’s flagship project, the Hell’s Kitchen Lithium and Power development, is located in the Salton Sea Geothermal Field, a region rich in geothermal resources. By combining renewable energy with lithium extraction, CTR is setting new standards for sustainability in the battery and electric vehicle (EV) industries.
The company’s operations are designed to support the growing demand for lithium, a critical material for EV batteries, while adhering to strict environmental standards. CTR’s closed-loop system uses 100% renewable energy and steam, ensuring near-zero carbon emissions and a small physical footprint. With strategic partnerships and a focus on domestic production, CTR is playing a vital role in strengthening the U.S. battery supply chain and advancing clean energy initiatives.
Battery Technology
CTR’s core technology revolves around its Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) process, which is powered by renewable geothermal energy. Unlike traditional methods such as evaporation ponds or open-pit mining, CTR’s DLE technology is environmentally friendly and highly efficient. The process extracts lithium from geothermal brines in a closed-loop system, producing high-purity lithium hydroxide and lithium carbonate in hours rather than months. This method significantly reduces water usage, eliminates tailings, and avoids the need for overseas processing.
The integration of geothermal power generation with lithium extraction is a key differentiator for CTR. The company’s operations are powered entirely by renewable energy, ensuring a low-carbon footprint and aligning with global sustainability goals. CTR’s lithium products are essential for manufacturing lithium-ion batteries used in EVs and energy storage systems. By producing battery-grade lithium domestically, CTR is helping to reduce reliance on international supply chains and supporting the U.S. transition to clean energy.
Recent Projects
In recent years, CTR has achieved significant milestones. In April 2024, the company received a $30 million tax credit from the State of California to support the development of its Hell’s Kitchen project. This funding is expected to create nearly 450 jobs and generate substantial economic benefits for Imperial County. Additionally, in June 2023, CTR partnered with Aquatech to design and deliver the engineering and process plants for its $1 billion Lithium Hydroxide Facility. This facility, set to produce 25,000 tonnes of battery-grade lithium hydroxide annually, will be the world’s first fully integrated renewable power and lithium extraction operation.
Investors
CTR has attracted investment from major players in the automotive and energy sectors. In August 2023, Stellantis invested over $100 million in CTR to advance the Hell’s Kitchen project, marking a significant step in securing a domestic lithium supply for EV production. General Motors is also a strategic investor, though specific details of their involvement remain undisclosed. These partnerships highlight the industry’s confidence in CTR’s innovative approach to sustainable lithium production.
Business Details
Location: Imperial, California, USA
Website: https://cthermal.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/controlled-thermal-resources/
