ACS Group has expanded its strategic partnership with Vulcan Energy to develop Europe’s largest lithium production project.
The expanded partnership gives ACS Group an end-to-end role in developing Vulcan’s lithium production and processing infrastructure through its company Sedgman.
Sedgman and HOCHTIEF Infrastructure have been appointed as the engineering, procurement and construction management contractor for Vulcan’s Lionheart project, delivering an end-to-end solution for the €397 million Lithium Extraction Plant and €337 million Central Lithium Plant.
ACS Group and HOCHTIEF CEO Juan Santamaría said: “The Lionheart project is a flagship initiative for Europe’s clean energy future – combining lithium production with renewable energy generation. It is a strategic, high-impact project that aligns with our Group’s global capabilities in energy infrastructure.
“Our expertise in mineral processing and infrastructure makes us ideal partners for a development of this scale and significance.”
HOCHTIEF will also invest €169 million in Vulcan, comprising a €39 million investment in the Lionheart project and a subscription of up to €130 million in Vulcan shares.
HOCHTIEF has also been named as the preferred supplier for Lionheart’s civil construction works.
HOCHTIEF Infrastructure CEO Legorburo said**:** “We are contributing our comprehensive experience in executing complex infrastructure projects in Europe and our network of exceptional partners to ensure the project’s rapid and efficient execution.”
The Lionheart project is estimated to produce 24,000 tonnes of battery-grade lithium hydroxide monohydrate each year while also generating renewable heat and power.
The project has already been awarded EU Strategic Project status under the Critical Raw Materials Act, recognising its transformative potential for Europe’s clean energy future and lithium independence.
