GeoFrame Energy announced on Tuesday that it will begin construction this summer on a lithium extraction facility in East Texas, aiming to address the growing demand for battery-grade lithium carbonate in the United States. The project is set to leverage innovative Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) technology powered by geothermal energy, marking a significant step toward sustainable domestic lithium production. This facility will be the first in the U.S. to extract lithium carbonate from the Smackover Formation, a mineral-rich limestone aquifer.
The Smackover Formation, spanning over 7,400 acres, contains vast reserves of lithium-rich brine. GeoFrame plans to utilize Ekosolve’s DLE method, developed in partnership with the University of Melbourne, which boasts high recovery rates (up to 95%) while minimizing environmental impact. Unlike traditional mining methods that strain freshwater supplies and cause pollution, GeoFrame’s system uses geothermal power and operates with reduced water consumption and no harmful pollutants. This approach aligns with the company’s commitment to eco-conscious extraction practices.
The facility is expected to begin production in early 2026, with plans to scale up output to 83,500 metric tons annually by 2029—enough to meet 100% of current U.S. lithium demand. In 2024, domestic production met only 44.7% of U.S. lithium needs, rising to 76.4% when including Canadian imports. President Donald Trump recently signed an executive order invoking emergency powers to boost domestic production of critical minerals like lithium and nickel amid escalating trade tensions with China. China’s restrictions on lithium exports have further underscored the urgency for U.S.-based supply chains.
“This is about energy independence and sustainable innovation,” said GeoFrame CEO Bruce Cutright. “We’re not just producing lithium—we’re producing it responsibly, with geothermal power and minimal environmental impact.” The company’s project is expected to serve as a model for sustainable resource development while supporting local economies through job creation and investment.
GeoFrame’s use of Ekosolve technology highlights a broader shift in lithium extraction strategies, focusing on efficiency and sustainability. The method eliminates the need for hard rock mining or evaporation ponds, significantly reducing costs and environmental damage while achieving battery-grade purity levels exceeding 99.5%. As global competition for lithium intensifies, this facility positions GeoFrame Energy as a key player in reshaping U.S. clean energy supply chains.
