Kachi lithium brine project, Argentina

22nd March 2024 By: Sheila Barradas - Creamer Media Research Coordinator & Senior Deputy Editor

Kachi lithium brine project, Argentina

Photo by: Lake Resources

Name of the Project
Kachi lithium brine project.

Location
Catamarca, Argentina.

Project Owner/s
Lithium developer Lake Resources.

Project Description
The Phase 1 definitive feasibility study on Kachi has demonstrated that it is a tier-one project. During this phase, production of 25 000 t/y over a 25-year life-of-mine will be targeted.

Potential Job Creation
Not stated.

Net Present Value/Internal Rate of Return
The project boasts a pretax net present value, at an 8% discount rate, of $3.85-billion and an internal rate of return of 25.35%, with a payback of 4.25 years.

Capital Expenditure
Estimated initial capital expenditure for Phase 1 is $1.38-billion.

Planned Start/End Date
Kachi is targeting first lithium in 2027, with the ramp-up to full capacity by the end of 2028.

Latest Developments
The company expects to make a final investment decision in the first quarter of 2025.

Key Contracts, Suppliers and Consultants
Lilac Solutions (lithium extraction testwork); Hatch (engineering and design services); and Citi and JP Morgan (finance coordinators of the project).

Contact Details for Project Information
Lake Wells, tel +61 2 9299 9690 or email hello@lakeresources.com.au.