Lithium Universe (ASX: LU7) selects Bécancour Port for spodumene import to lithium carbonate refinery - Kalkine Media

Highlights

• Bécancour Port has been determined as the preferred port for import of spodumene to the company’s Bécancour lithium refinery.
• Bécancour Port, with connectivity to rail and road, manages more than 3,600,000 tons of cargo every year.
• By leveraging the port's strategic location and extensive facilities, Lithium Universe aims to establish a robust and efficient supply chain for spodumene import.
• LU7 is gearing up to commence discussions with the Port Authority.

Lithium Universe Limited (ASX: LU7) has reached a significant milestone with the completion of a comprehensive port study aimed at identifying the optimal import scenario for lithium-rich spodumene destined for its Bécancour lithium refinery. The proposed refinery is slated to be a crucial player in the production of battery-grade lithium carbonate.

The study has narrowed down the potential sourcing locations to within Canada or from international sites such as Africa, Brazil, or Australia. The evaluation process rigorously assessed several key ports, including Trois-Rivières, Sorel, Québec, Montreal, and Bécancour.

Each port was scrutinised for infrastructure, logistical capabilities, and capacity to handle importation and storage of spodumene. The goal was to select a port that could seamlessly integrate into the project's supply chain, ensuring smooth transportation and storage of the essential feedstock.

Bécancour Port is the preferred location. Here’s why.

After careful consideration, the Bécancour port emerged as the preferred choice for the project.

The Bécancour Port, managed by SPIPB and operated by Québec Stevedoring Limited (QSL), serves as a crucial transportation hub strategically positioned along the St. Lawrence River. The Québec government owns the port, comprising five berths spanning from 150 to 292 metres in length, and featuring a ro-ro ramp. Its freshwater setting provides ideal conditions for maritime operations. With a water depth of 10.67 metres, the port maintains year-round accessibility, allowing for the consistent arrival of large-capacity merchant vessels.

The Bécancour Port, which lies midway between Montreal and Québec City, acts as a key link in the transportation network, offering access to both rail and road networks. With an impressive throughput exceeding 3,600,000 tons of cargo per year, it plays a pivotal role in facilitating trade and logistics activities in the region. The port's significance is further emphasised by its ability to accommodate nearly 200 vessels every year.

Early discussions are underway for expanding the terminal, highlighting the focus on meeting the changing demands from the port’s expanding customer base in the area. These initial talks also include considerations for obtaining specialised equipment, especially bulk unloading machinery, customised to meet the needs of various companies setting up operations in the Bécancour Industrial Park.

As per the study, the product delivery plan includes bulk shipments. Vessels would carry a cargo quantity of 30k tonnes with the minimum shipment requirement of 10k tonnes per vessel. The processing site is expected to consume 10k spodumene in every four weeks, and estimated annual transportation volume is estimated at nearly 140k tonnes of spodumene. Transportation of spodumene would take place exclusively by road.

In conclusion, the selection of the Bécancour Port represents a significant step forward in the development of the Bécancour Lithium Refinery project. By leveraging the port's strategic location and extensive facilities, Lithium Universe aims to establish a robust and efficient supply chain for the importation of spodumene, laying the groundwork for the production of high-quality lithium carbonate to meet the growing demands of the global battery market. The company would commence discussions with the port authority.