Arkansas lithium summit planned for February

The Arkansas Lithium Innovation Summit, presented by Standard Lithium, ExxonMobil, Albemarle, and TETRA Technologies, will be held at the Robinson Center in Little Rock on February 15-16, 2024. The two-day meeting will bring together industry leaders, policymakers, and key stakeholders to highlight the significant role of lithium in the energy transition and how Arkansas is strategically positioning itself in this vital sector.

Registration is now open at this link.

The summit will include keynotes from Gov. Sarah Sanders and Arkansas Secretary of Commerce Hugh McDonald. Key sessions include insights from global lithium expert Joe Lowry, and industry analyst Andy Miller.

Topics to be discussed include:

• The development of vertically integrated supply chains, spanning from mining and mineral extraction to the production of batteries and electric vehicles;
• Stakeholder satisfaction within the industry;
• Investment trends and opportunities in Arkansas;
• Infrastructure developments supporting lithium production; and
• How to foster innovation and workforce development in the state to align with the growing demands of the lithium industry.

“The Arkansas Lithium Innovation Summit marks a critical juncture as Arkansas takes center stage in the global shift toward sustainable energy,” said Hugh McDonald, Arkansas Secretary of Commerce. “This gathering will be a convergence of vision and action, spotlighting how our state is preparing for the lithium industry’s growth. Arkansas’ unique position in this sector, including our natural resources and industry expertise, makes it an ideal location for this event, which will bring together industry experts, suppliers, community leaders and investors.”

“The upcoming Arkansas Lithium Innovation Summit underscores the national focus and attention that Standard Lithium’s persistent efforts and hard work have steered towards Arkansas, shaping a narrative that has brought us to this milestone,” said Robert Mintak, CEO of Standard Lithium. “We look forward to collaborating with other industry leaders, state officials and key stakeholders exchanging insights, and together forging a bright future for lithium innovation in Arkansas.”

“Arkansas is poised to become a major domestic supplier of lithium, and we’re excited to be at the forefront of creating new jobs and attracting more investments for this great state,” said Patrick Howarth, Lithium Global Business Manager at ExxonMobil. “The region’s rich history of oil, gas, and bromine production and its well-established permitting structure make it a welcoming environment for our operations. We’re excited about the support from the government and local community thus far and look forward to collaborating further at the Arkansas Lithium Innovation Summit.”