Company Interview / Dirt to dollars: Calix’s lithium pivot

Key points:

Shift to a lithium technology licensing model with Pilbara Minerals (ASX:PLS) Energy-agnostic kiln aimed at reducing mine-site processing and transport costs ZESTY green iron project backed by ARENA and Rio Tinto (ASX:RIO) Tolling deal with Green360 Technologies and clay-based cement extensions with Boral (ASX:BLD)

Phil Hodgson from Calix Limited outlines a strategic pivot in the company’s midstream lithium plans, following a restructure of its joint venture with Pilbara Minerals (ASX:PLS). Hodgson states that Calix now focuses on a licensing model, recycling capital back into the business while allowing Pilbara Minerals to pursue the equity-heavy demonstration plant. Both parties are expected, in Hodgson’s view, to benefit from future upside once the technology is proven and licensed across the spodumene-derived lithium industry.

Hodgson describes Calix’s core technology as a new type of kiln that is “energy agnostic”, able to run on renewable electricity or fossil fuels. He argues this flexibility can lower mine-site processing costs and reduce waste by enabling on-site concentration of ore, particularly important where approximately 94% of spodumene mined is waste. Hodgson maintains that processing at the mine can materially cut transport costs and emissions.

Beyond lithium, Hodgson highlights applications in cement, lime, and iron and steel. He points to progress on the “ZESTY” zero-emissions steel technology, supported by a $44.9 million ARENA grant and a joint development arrangement with Rio Tinto (ASX:RIO), targeting a 30,000 tonne per annum green iron demonstration plant in Kwinana. He also notes a new tolling agreement with Green360 Technologies and collaboration with Boral (ASX:BLD) on low-emissions cement products.