GT1 steams ahead on integrated Ontario lithium operation, fuelled by spodumene

Green Technology Metals has pilot work underway and continued its advance towards becoming Ontario’s first integrated lithium operation.

The company has kept its lithium ambitions on track amid a sector-wide downswing. Pic: Getty Images

Special Report: Green Technology Metals has pilot test work underway and continued to tick off a checklist towards becoming Ontario’s first lithium concentrate and chemicals operation.

• GT1 and EcoPro have pilot work underway and expect to soon produce battery-grade lithium hydroxide
• Partnership with the global battery maker nearing a formal arrangement
• Preferred Conversion site location selected in Thunder Bay

Pilot work using a tonne of spodumene concentrate from Green Technology Metals’ (ASX:GT1) own Seymour project is now underway at partner EcoPro’s South Korean facility.

The globally prominent manufacturer is expected to produce battery-grade lithium hydroxide by the second quarter of this year.

Work on a tonne of concentrate from GT1’s other Ontario lithium mining project, Root, is also expected to begin shortly, and the company says a formal arrangement with EcoPro is nearing execution.

GT1 managing director Cameron Henry said the EcoPro partnership has been a key achievement among other milestones that have collectively solidified its position as one of the province’s most advanced lithium explorers and developers.

“This collaboration has catalysed progress on the Thunder Bay lithium conversion facility, with several critical workstreams advancing rapidly,” Henry said.

“We have identified a preferred site for the conversion facility in Thunder Bay and are currently conducting detailed due diligence. 

“Simultaneously, significant technological advancements in the facility’s engineering have been made, leveraging EcoPro’s proven expertise and experience. 

GT1 and EcoPro team members at its Korean innovation offices. Pic: GT1

Piloting prefeasibility

Henry noted that piloting test work is well underway using Seymour spodumene at its partner’s state-of-the-art Pohang facility in South Korea.

“The program will soon expand to include a representative spodumene bulk sample delivered from the Root Project,” he said.

“These trials aim to produce battery-grade lithium hydroxide, marking a critical milestone for GT1. 

“Our highly experienced team, supported by strategic investors and offtake partners, remains confident in the long-term outlook for lithium demand. 

Henry added work reflects a commitment to driving Ontario’s lithium supply chain, and that GT1 was excited to further progress the facility and strengthen its EcoPro partnership with significant updates throughout 2025.

A letter of intent for exclusive two-year access to GT1’s preferred site is now signed, enabling detailed due diligence for the facility to advance.

The prefeasibility study remains on track for completion by year’s end, and the company says significant technological advancements have been made for a facility using proven EcoPro designs to ensure cost accuracy, design precision, and reduced commissioning risks.

Planned conversion facility timeline. Pic: GT1

Ontario operator

GT1 believes the project should yield benefits beyond its shareholders, particularly to the province of Ontario by jobs created through construction and steady-state operations.

The company got a significant show of support from the Canucks in the form of a letter of intent for up to C$100m in federal funding and says provincial discissions are now active with Invest Ontario.

GT1 was one of the companies who stuck it through a downturn in a Canadian lithium sector considered due for a round of acquisitions.

Keen-eyed observers can see the portents of a lithium rebound in the works, and GT1 should soon have an expanded resource on deck to tally ahead of prefeasibility.

This article was developed in collaboration with Green Technology Metals, a Stockhead advertiser at the time of publishing.

This article does not constitute financial product advice. You should consider obtaining independent advice before making any financial decisions.

Originally published as GT1 steams ahead on integrated Ontario lithium operation, fuelled by spodumene