Temiskaming Refinery Developer Appoints Project Manager for Construction Completion
Electra Battery Materials Corporation is advancing its cobalt refinery project, aimed for completion in early 2027. The company recently awarded an $8.3 million contract to EXP Services Inc. for essential engineering and project management needed to finalize the construction of the facility, located south of Temiskaming Shores.
Construction Progress and Plans
With a year left until construction is expected to finish, Electra has revitalized activity at the site. The goal is to achieve mechanical completion in the first half of 2027, followed by commissioning and production thereafter. Electra initially acquired the property, a former Yukon refinery, in 2017. However, work was paused in 2023 due to various challenges, including inflation and supply chain disruptions.
Resumed Activity and Strategic Goals
- Electra raised the necessary financing in October 2023 to resume construction.
- Paolo Toscano, Electra’s vice-president of project and engineering, emphasized the need for specialized expertise to ensure efficiency and safety.
- CEO Trent Mell highlighted the refinery’s role in supporting North America’s military and industrial needs.
Electra’s cobalt sulfate refinery is being promoted as a unique establishment in North America. Once operational, it will produce 5,100 tonnes of battery-grade cobalt sulfate annually, with plans to increase capacity to 6,500 tonnes.
Ongoing Preparations
The company is actively engaging in an early works program that includes engineering, procurement, and construction planning. The procurement of piping and electrical components has resumed, while preparations for the site—such as laydown areas and logistics support—are in progress. These steps are crucial for full construction mobilization, set to begin within the coming weeks.
