SIMPEC Lands $11 Million Project to Expand Tianqi Lithium Processing Plant

SIMPEC Wins Major Contract at Tianqi Lithium Kwinana

WestStar Industrial Limited’s wholly owned subsidiary SIMPEC has been awarded a substantial contract valued at approximately $11 million to deliver a comprehensive package of civil, structural, mechanical, piping, electrical, and instrumentation works at Tianqi Lithium’s hydroxide processing facility in Kwinana, Western Australia. This contract marks a significant milestone for SIMPEC as it continues to expand its footprint in the lithium sector, a critical component of Australia’s evolving energy landscape.

The project’s primary objective is to enhance the processing capacity of the existing plant through the installation of new mechanical equipment. Given that the works will be carried out within a live operational environment, the project demands meticulous coordination and integration to ensure continuous plant performance without disruption. This complexity underscores SIMPEC’s reputation as a trusted delivery partner capable of managing multidisciplinary industrial projects to exacting standards.

Strategic Alignment with Energy Transition Goals

SIMPEC’s Managing Director, Mark Dimasi, highlighted the strategic importance of this contract, noting that it aligns closely with the company’s growth ambitions and its commitment to supporting Australia’s energy transition. The lithium sector is pivotal in the global shift towards cleaner energy technologies, particularly for electric vehicles and battery storage solutions. By securing this contract, SIMPEC not only strengthens its presence in a high-growth industry but also contributes to the broader national agenda of sustainable energy development.

The project is scheduled to commence immediately and is expected to reach completion by the first quarter of 2026. This timeline reflects the urgency and importance of capacity expansion at Tianqi Lithium Kwinana, which is jointly owned by Tianqi Lithium Corporation and IGO Limited through their joint venture, Tianqi Lithium Energy Australia.

Implications for WestStar and the Sector

For WestStar Industrial, this contract award represents a meaningful boost to its industrial services portfolio, particularly in the resources and energy sectors. It also signals confidence from major industry players in SIMPEC’s ability to deliver complex projects safely, efficiently, and to high quality standards. As the lithium market continues to attract investment and scale up production, companies like SIMPEC that can offer integrated engineering and construction services stand to benefit from sustained demand.

While the announcement does not disclose contract margins or specific financial impacts, the size and strategic nature of the contract suggest positive implications for WestStar’s revenue trajectory and market positioning. Investors and industry watchers will be keen to monitor project progress and any further collaborations between SIMPEC and Tianqi Lithium or other players in the lithium supply chain.