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Stardust Power, a leading developer of battery-grade lithium products, officially commenced construction on its $1.2 billion lithium refinery at the Southside Industrial Park in Muskogee, Oklahoma, on January 22. The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by senior company officials, Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell, Mayor Patrick Cale, and other state and local dignitaries. The 66-acre site, acquired by Stardust Power in December 2024, was selected following an independent environmental assessment that confirmed its suitability for the refinery. The refinery project will be executed in two phases. The initial phase will focus on establishing a production line with an annual capacity of up to 25,000 tonnes of battery-grade lithium. The second phase will involve adding a second production line, increasing the overall capacity to 50,000 tonnes per annum. The company emphasized the sites advantages, including proximity to the nations largest inland waterway system, robust transportation infrastructure (road and rail), and access to a skilled workforce with experience in the oil and gas sector. This lithium refinery will be instrumental in mitigating national security and supply chain risks for the United States, stated Stardust Power CEO Roshan Pujari. By bringing critical mineral manufacturing onshore, we are actively supporting Americas energy leadership. He further highlighted the companys progress, stating, With the land acquisition and necessary permits secured in 2024, we are thrilled to initiate construction. Lieutenant Governor Pinnell echoed the projects significance, emphasizing its contribution to strengthening Oklahomas role in critical mineral supply chains and enhancing national security. “Stardust Power’s decision to break ground on its lithium refinery in Muskogee is a significant step forward for Oklahoma’s role in reinforcing our critical mineral supply chains and bolstering national security,” said Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell. “This project not only strengthens our state’s position as a leader in sustainable energy, but it also creates hundreds of good-paying jobs and drives economic growth for our communities. By attracting innovative companies like Stardust Power, Oklahoma is ensuring that we remain at the forefront of America’s energy future.” “Stardust Power’s investment places Muskogee at the forefront of the energy revolution,” said Mayor Cale. “Sustainable energy is key to the future, and this refinery strengthens America’s supply chain, creates hundreds of jobs, and highlights our community’s dedication to innovation and progress.” By establishing this significant domestic lithium production facility, Stardust Power aims to contribute to a more secure and sustainable energy future for the United States. By establishing a large-scale lithium refinery in Oklahoma, Stardust Power aims to contribute significantly to meeting this growing demand and reducing reliance on foreign sources of critical minerals. |