Lithium Universe Limited has successfully raised $2.46 million through the first tranche of a share placement, fueling its ambitions to build a green lithium refinery in Canada and advance innovative solar panel recycling technologies.
- Raised $2.46 million via 153.75 million shares at $0.016 each
- Second tranche of $40,000 pending shareholder approval in December
- Placement includes options exercisable at $0.008 expiring in 2028
- Funds to support lithium carbonate refinery in Québec and solar panel silver recovery
- Innovative recycling tech recovers 95%+ pure silver preserving silicon wafers
Capital Raise Completed
Lithium Universe Limited (ASX – LU7) has successfully completed the first tranche of its share placement, raising A$2.46 million by issuing over 153 million new shares at 1.6 cents each. This capital injection is a critical step in advancing the company’s dual strategic initiatives focused on sustainable lithium production and photovoltaic (PV) solar panel recycling.
The placement also includes attaching options exercisable at half the share price (0.8 cents) with an expiry in August 2028, offering investors potential upside as the company progresses its projects. A second tranche, raising a further A$40,000, awaits shareholder approval expected in December 2025.
Driving North American Lithium Independence
Lithium Universe is positioning itself at the forefront of North America’s lithium supply chain transformation. With electric vehicle battery demand set to surge, the company is developing a green lithium carbonate refinery in Bécancour, Québec. This facility aims to produce up to 18,270 tonnes annually of battery-grade lithium carbonate, primarily targeting lithium iron phosphate batteries.
The refinery leverages proven technology from a successful Chinese plant, promising efficient and timely delivery. This project is designed to reduce North America’s reliance on foreign lithium sources, a strategic imperative as the continent prepares for a massive EV battery rollout.
Innovating Solar Panel Recycling
Beyond lithium, Lithium Universe is pioneering a breakthrough in solar panel recycling through proprietary technologies acquired from Macquarie University. Their Microwave Joule Heating Technology and Jet Electrochemical Silver Extraction process enable rapid, high-purity recovery of silver from end-of-life PV panels while preserving silicon wafers for reuse.
Laboratory trials have demonstrated silver recovery rates exceeding 95%, with purity levels rivaling premium Britannia-grade silver. This innovation addresses the growing challenge of solar panel waste, projected to reach tens of millions of tonnes by 2050, while tapping into the rising demand for silver in electronics and solar applications.
Outlook and Market Positioning
Lithium Universe’s capital raise and technology advancements position it as a key player in the emerging green energy supply chain. By simultaneously addressing lithium supply constraints and solar panel waste, the company is carving out a unique niche that aligns with global sustainability trends and circular economy principles.
Investors will be watching closely for the outcome of the upcoming shareholder meeting and progress updates on both the refinery and recycling initiatives, which could significantly impact the company’s valuation and market perception.
Bottom Line?
With fresh capital secured, Lithium Universe is set to accelerate its green lithium and solar recycling ambitions, but shareholder approval and project execution remain critical next steps.
Questions in the middle?
- Will shareholder approval for the second tranche be secured as planned in December?
- What are the detailed timelines and capital expenditure estimates for the Québec refinery?
- How soon can the solar panel recycling technology be commercialized at scale?