Frontier Lithium Signs Memorandum of Understanding with Panasonic Energy to Advance North American Battery Supply Chain

Executive Summary

• Frontier Lithium announced a non‑binding Memorandum of Understanding with Panasonic Energy and Mitsubishi Corporation to explore the procurement of lithium hydroxide from the PAK Lithium Project.
• The MoU sets the stage for negotiating a definitive offtake agreement, potentially securing up to 20,000 tpa of battery‑grade lithium salts by 2030.
• The partnership underscores Frontier’s strategy to build an integrated North American lithium supply chain and may enhance project financing prospects.

Key Details

• Parties Involved: Frontier Lithium Inc., Panasonic Energy Co., Ltd., Mitsubishi Corporation.
• Project Focus: PAK Lithium Project (Ontario, Canada) – upstream mine & mill plus downstream conversion facility targeting ~20,000 tpa of battery‑grade lithium salts beginning in 2030.
• MoU Scope:
• Panasonic Energy expresses interest in purchasing lithium hydroxide from the project.
• Parties will explore broader technical and commercial collaboration to strengthen a resilient North American battery supply chain.
• Intent to negotiate a definitive offtake agreement, with possible competitive pricing mechanisms.
• Ownership Structure: Frontier holds 92.5 % of the joint‑venture; Mitsubishi holds 7.5 %.
• Strategic Rationale: Aligns with growing EV demand and North American policy emphasis on domestic critical mineral supply chains.
• Forward‑Looking Statements: The MoU is non‑binding; actual procurement terms, pricing, volumes, and timelines remain subject to future negotiation and technical validation.

Notable Quotes

• “This Memorandum of Understanding … represents an important step forward in advancing a fully integrated, made‑in‑North America lithium supply chain,” – Trevor Walker, President & CEO, Frontier Lithium.
• “Canada is building the secure and reliable critical mineral supply chains that our economies and defence industries rely on,” – The Honourable Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources.