EMPS CEO Karl Kottmeier Discusses Saskatchewan Li Projects Yesterday, in an interview on Resource Talks, Karl Kottmeier, CEO of EMP Metals Corp. (Ticker: EMPS.c, EMPPF for U.S. investors), provided a detailed update on the company's lithium development activities in Saskatchewan, Canada. EMP Metals is focused on advancing its direct lithium extraction (DLE) projects across three primary assets: Viewfield, Mansur, and Tyvan, covering around 200,000 acres of land.
Key points from the interview:
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Company Overview: EMP Metals trades with a market cap of approximately $57 million and has 115 million shares outstanding, with insiders and key investors holding significant stakes.
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Viewfield Project: The priority project has a recently completed preliminary economic assessment (PEA), projecting a production of 12,000 tons per year of battery-grade lithium over a 23.2-year life. The PEA estimated a capital expenditure of $571 million and an after-tax net present value of $860 million. Flow testing is ongoing, with results expected soon.
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Mansur Project: Further south of Viewfield, this project holds inferred resources but remains earlier in development. A well is planned for later this year to assess expansion potential.
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DLE Technology: EMP Metals is pursuing a modular approach to developing its lithium extraction, focusing on smaller, phased stages to manage costs and risks. The company is collaborating with two potential DLE providers, ESM and Koch Industries, to finalize technology selection. The clean brine at EMP’s properties is expected to facilitate a more efficient DLE process, potentially lowering operating costs.
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Jurisdiction: Kottmeier emphasized the benefits of working in Saskatchewan, citing its supportive government, abundant infrastructure, and highly skilled labor pool derived from the region's oil and gas industry. The favorable conditions contribute to a streamlined permitting process for EMP’s lithium projects.
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Production Timeline: The company targets commercial production by the end of Q1 2027. The plan is to develop Viewfield first while continuing exploration and drilling at Mansur and Tyvan.
In the broader context, EMP Metals sees significant potential for lithium production in Saskatchewan, which is drawing interest from major oil companies. Kottmeier highlighted the strategic importance of developing local lithium supply chains for North America, given the growing demand for battery metals.
Overall, the interview showcased EMP Metals’ focused approach on expanding and de-risking its assets while remaining flexible in financing and potential partnerships.
Full interview here:
Posted on behalf of EMP Metals Corp.