Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Texas Governor Greg Abbott joined forces to break ground at the site of Tesla's new lithium refinery in Corpus Christi. With a planned investment of $375 million, the facility aims to secure a domestic supply of lithium hydroxide, a crucial component for Tesla's electric vehicle and battery production.

Musk revealed Tesla's ambitious goal of producing enough battery-grade lithium at the refinery to manufacture one million vehicles annually, surpassing the refining capacity of North America combined. This move comes as Tesla seeks to reduce its reliance on foreign sources and strengthen its position in the electric vehicle market.

Tesla's filings with the Texas Comptroller's office indicate plans for constructing a battery-grade lithium hydroxide refining facility, along with supporting facilities for battery materials processing, refining, and manufacturing. The company emphasises an innovative, environmentally friendly process that minimises hazardous reagents and produces usable by-products.

Addressing concerns about emissions, Musk stated that the refinery would have no toxic emissions and would not pose health risks to nearby residents. Turner Caldwell, Tesla's battery raw material and recycling leader, highlighted the company's commitment to finding beneficial uses for the by-products, which are expected to consist mainly of sand and limestone.

The refining process for battery-grade lithium typically involves crushing raw material, high-temperature heating, and acid mixing, with hydrochloric acid commonly used. However, Tesla did not disclose the specific chemistry it will employ for processing.

Governor Abbott commended Elon Musk as the greatest entrepreneur on Earth, emphasising Texas' desire for self-reliance and reduced dependence on foreign nations. With China currently controlling over half of the world's lithium processing and refining capacity, Musk considers the availability of battery-grade lithium a critical constraint for the electric vehicle industry and beyond.

The ground-breaking ceremony signifies an important step in Tesla's quest for sustainable and domestic lithium production. By establishing the refinery, Tesla aims to enhance its supply chain, support the growth of the electric vehicle market, and reinforce Texas' position as a leader in clean energy and self-sufficiency.

To view the full address via youtube, click here.