Pilbara Minerals Limited stands as one of Australia’s leading lithium producers, operating the world’s largest independent hard-rock lithium operation. Established in 2013, the company has rapidly grown to become a significant contributor to the global lithium supply chain through its Pilgangoora Operation in Western Australia. The company produces spodumene and tantalite concentrates, essential materials for electric vehicle batteries and energy storage systems. With a strong focus on sustainable practices and responsible mining, Pilbara Minerals has built strategic partnerships with major industry players, including POSCO Holdings Inc., strengthening its position in the global battery materials market.
Battery Technology
Pilbara Minerals’ technology portfolio centers on lithium production and processing capabilities. Their Pilgangoora Operation features two advanced processing facilities: the Pilgan Plant and Ngungaju Plant, both dedicated to producing high-quality spodumene concentrate. The company’s technical expertise extends to mid-stream processing through its joint venture with POSCO, which operates a lithium hydroxide facility in South Korea. This facility can process enough material annually to support battery production for approximately one million electric vehicles.
The company has also invested in innovative processing methods through its partnership with Calix Ltd. Their mid-stream demonstration plant project implements electric calciner technology, which aims to reduce waste and carbon emissions during production. This technological advancement represents a significant step toward more efficient and environmentally conscious lithium processing methods.
Recent Projects
In late 2024, Pilbara Minerals completed its P1000 Expansion Project at the Pilgangoora operation ahead of schedule and within the $560 million budget. This expansion significantly increased production capacity at the Pilgan Plant. The company also finalized its acquisition of Latin Resources, adding the Colina Project in Brazil to its portfolio. This strategic move positions Pilbara Minerals as a multi-asset global lithium producer.
Investors
Pilbara Minerals maintains a diverse investor base, with AustralianSuper Pty Ltd. holding approximately 10.48% of shares. Other significant investors include Ganfeng Lithium Group Co., Ltd. (5.732%), POSCO Holdings Inc. (2.724%), and various institutional investors such as State Street Global Advisors Trust Co. and BetaShares Capital Ltd. The company has attracted investment from major global funds, including Vanguard Total International Stock Index Fund and T. Rowe Price Overseas Stock Fund.
Business Details
Location: West Perth, Australia
Website: https://pilbaraminerals.com.au
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7708703
