Altech Batteries Ltd Quarterly Activities Report and Video

Perth, Australia (ABN Newswire) - Altech Batteries Ltd (ASX:ATC) (FRA:A3Y) (OTCMKTS:ALTHF) announced an update on funding of the CERENERGY sodium-chloride solid-state battery project in Saxony, Germany.

On 14 June 2024, the Company, through its Germany subsidiary Altech Batteries GmbH ("ABG"), announced the appointment of global big four professional services firm ("funding adviser") to assist in securing finance for the construction of Altech's 120MWh CERENERGY battery manufacturing plant in Germany. The project's financing strategy is structured across three key areas: debt, equity, and grants. These sources will cover not only the capital expenditures but also financing costs, working capital, debt service coverage, and an additional contingency for potential business interruptions.

Debt Process

A funding invitation document (investment teaser) has been finalised and distributed to various financial institutions for debt funding in the project. The Group has engaged ten commercial banks and two venture debt funds in a first market round, receiving predominantly positive initial feedback. Several of these institutions have expressed strong interest in participating in the financing. The Group is now in the process of shortlisting potential lenders to identify the most suitable financial partners for the project. To support a thorough due diligence process, a secure data room has been set up, providing detailed project information to interested financiers and ensuring full transparency. The DFS financial model has been adjusted to stress-test various funding scenarios tailored to the lending institutions ABG has engaged with. Further steps involve determining the most suitable banks to form a syndicate and appointing a lead bank to guide the lending process. This syndicate will play a crucial role in structuring the financing arrangement to meet the project's requirements.

Equity Funding

In addition to ongoing debt financing efforts, the Group has engaged several equity advisers to support the equity component of the project's funding package. As part of this strategy, the Altech Group plans to divest a minority interest in the project to one or two strategic investors. This partial divestment aims to attract investors who can bring not only capital, but also strategic value to the project, aligning with the CERENERGY project's long-term growth and sustainability objectives.

The Group is specifically targeting large utility groups, data centre operators, investment funds and corporations that are heavily involved in the green energy transition. These entities are seen as ideal partners due to their strong alignment with the project's focus on sustainable energy solutions, as well as their capacity to provide substantial financial backing.

To date, significant progress has been made in these equity discussions. Several Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) have been signed, allowing for deeper engagement with Figure 1. Financing Plan and Structure prospective investors. Altech has also circulated draft term sheets to a number of interested parties, outlining the proposed terms and conditions for investment. These documents serve as a starting point for negotiations, paving the way for more detailed discussions regarding the potential equity stake and partnership structure.

The strategic decision to divest a portion of the project is aimed at reducing the overall financial burden on the Company while bringing in experienced partners who can contribute to the project's success. By securing both the equity and debt components, the Company aims to finalise the full financing package, ensuring the timely construction and commissioning of the CERENERGY battery plant.

The next steps will focus on advancing these discussions and converting interest into formal commitments, which are crucial for moving forward with the project.

CEO and MD Mr Iggy Tan stated "The funding stage of any project is the most complex and challenging process of any project. Securing a big four funding adviser with expertise and a global network is a major step in our financing efforts.

Altech is advancing both debt and equity discussions, along with offtake agreements, to fully fund the CERENERGY project. We are seeing strong interest, especially from European banks and potential equity partners".

Breakthrough 55% Higher Energy Density Anode Achieved in Silumina Anodestm Lithium-ion Battery Altech achieved a remarkable milestone in its Silumina TM Anodes battery material technology. The Company is delighted to announce an average 55% surge in lithium battery anode energy capacity, marking a significant breakthrough. By utilising its innovative proprietary technology, Altech has now improved on the previous 30% energy increase, by blending alumina-coated silicon particles (10%) with battery-grade graphite, to create a composite graphite/silicon anode for the lithium-ion battery electrode. Upon activation, this composite material has now exhibited a remarkable 55% increase in capacity compared to the traditional graphite-only anode material.

In a series of tests, the Altech lithium-ion battery anode material exhibited an average energy retention capacity of approximately 500 mAh/g, which is significantly higher than the average of approximately 320 mAh/g for a normal lithium-ion battery anode. This represents an average of 55% increase in energy retention capacity. Importantly, the Altech Batteries demonstrated good stability and cycling performance, indicating that the technology is highly promising. Altech's technology has the potential to be gamechanging and has demonstrated that silicon particles can be modified to resolve the capacity fading caused by both the swelling and first-cycle-capacity-loss problems. Altech's Research and Development team, led by Dr. Jingyuan Liu, achieved this significant breakthrough.

To view Mr. Iggy Tan discuss the CERENERGY(R) funding, please visit:
https://www.abnnewswire.net/lnk/UFQ6984N

*To view the full Quarterly Report, please visit:
https://abnnewswire.net/lnk/8923YOT2

About Altech Batteries Ltd:

Altech Batteries Limited (ASX:ATC) (FRA:A3Y) is a specialty battery technology company that has a joint venture agreement with world leading German battery institute Fraunhofer IKTS ("Fraunhofer") to commercialise the revolutionary CERENERGY(R) Sodium Alumina Solid State (SAS) Battery. CERENERGY(R) batteries are the game-changing alternative to lithium-ion batteries. CERENERGY(R) batteries are fire and explosion-proof; have a life span of more than 15 years and operate in extreme cold and desert climates. The battery technology uses table salt and is lithium-free; cobalt-free; graphite-free; and copper-free, eliminating exposure to critical metal price rises and supply chain concerns.

The joint venture is commercialising its CERENERGY(R) battery, with plans to construct a 100MWh production facility on Altech's land in Saxony, Germany. The facility intends to produce CERENERGY(R) battery modules to provide grid storage solutions to the market.

Source:
Altech Batteries Ltd

Contact:
Corporate
Iggy Tan
Managing Director
Altech Batteries Limited
Tel: +61-8-6168-1555
Email: info@altechgroup.com

Martin Stein
Chief Financial Officer
Altech Batteries Limited
Tel: +61-8-6168-1555
Email: info@altechgroup.com

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Altech Batteries Ltd DNV Comparison Study on CERENERGY Technology

Perth, Australia (ABN Newswire) - Altech Batteries Limited (ASX:ATC) (FRA:A3Y) (OTCMKTS:ALTHF) is pleased to announce that as part of its funding strategy and due diligence plan, an independent study has been conducted on the CERENERGY(R) technology versus alternative technologies such as lithium-ion, sodium-sulphur and vanadium flow batteries. DNV was engaged to produce an independent, high-level comparison report evaluating CERENERGY(R) technology against these alternative technologies. DNV is one of the leading energy storage technical advisors and specialises in the identification, evaluation, testing, and certification of battery energy storage systems worldwide.

Highlights

- As part of funding due diligence plan

- Independent comparison study of CERENERGY(R) technology

- DNV was engaged by Altech

- DNV is one of the leading energy storage technical advisors

- CERENERGY(R) - Promising emerging battery technology

The complete comparison report has been prepared specifically for Altech Batteries GmbH and is confidential. Nevertheless, Altech is pleased to publish the Executive Summary of the technology comparison at cell level in the following qualitative overview. Table 1 gives a high-level overview of the advantages and disadvantages for the listed characteristics in comparison to the most widely used technologies on the market against CERENERGY(R) sodium chloride solid state (SCSS) technology.

The DNV primary conclusion states "CERENERGY(R) is one of the promising emerging technologies. Further improvements in terms of the achievable energy density, performance, and cost efficiency can be expected in the coming years" (DNV, May 2025).

*To view tables and figures, please visit:
https://abnnewswire.net/lnk/66D7P180

About Altech Batteries Ltd:

Altech Batteries Limited (ASX:ATC) (FRA:A3Y) is a specialty battery technology company that has a joint venture agreement with world leading German battery institute Fraunhofer IKTS ("Fraunhofer") to commercialise the revolutionary CERENERGY(R) Sodium Alumina Solid State (SAS) Battery. CERENERGY(R) batteries are the game-changing alternative to lithium-ion batteries. CERENERGY(R) batteries are fire and explosion-proof; have a life span of more than 15 years and operate in extreme cold and desert climates. The battery technology uses table salt and is lithium-free; cobalt-free; graphite-free; and copper-free, eliminating exposure to critical metal price rises and supply chain concerns.

The joint venture is commercialising its CERENERGY(R) battery, with plans to construct a 100MWh production facility on Altech's land in Saxony, Germany. The facility intends to produce CERENERGY(R) battery modules to provide grid storage solutions to the market.

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Altech Batteries Ltd CERENERGY Type Battery Shows 28 Year Shelf Life

Perth, Australia (ABN Newswire) - Altech Batteries Limited (ASX:ATC) (FRA:A3Y) (OTCMKTS:ALTHF) is pleased to announce the exceptional long-term shelf life of its CERENERGY(R) sodium-nickel-chloride (Na Ni-Cl) battery technology.

Highlights

- CERENERGY(R) has been designed on well-established sodium-nickel-chloride chemistry

- Origins to the first-generation Zebra batteries

- 28-year-old Zebra battery, left unused in storage, provided to Altech

- Upon testing, battery performed as if it were new

- No degradation in function or capacity despite nearly three decades of dormancy

- Ideal for long-term military storage

CERENERGY(R) batteries have been designed on well-established sodium-nickel-chloride chemistry, which traces its origins to the first-generation Zebra batteries. These earlier Zebra cells had a smaller energy capacity (approximately 100Wh) compared to the current CERENERGY(R) cells (250Wh). CERENERGY(R) cells were developed to improve energy capacity and reduce battery costs, but share the same fundamental Na Ni-Cl electrochemical design.

In a compelling demonstration of the technology's durability, a 28-year-old Zebra battery- originally manufactured by AEG ZEBRA in Berlin and left unused in storage-was recently provided to Altech for evaluation. Upon testing, the battery was successfully activated and performed as if it were new, exhibiting no degradation in function or capacity despite nearly three decades of dormancy.

The underlying reason for this remarkable longevity lies in the battery's unique chemistry and solid-state design. In its inactive state, the battery's electrolyte exists as solid sodium aluminium chloride salt crystals and nickel powder. All components are contained within a hermetically sealed, pressure-tight cell, preventing any moisture ingress or chemical degradation. Unlike conventional lithium-ion batteries-which rely on volatile liquid electrolytes that degrade over time-the CERENERGY(R) system remains completely inert and stable at ambient conditions.

When activated by heating to approximately 270 degC, the 28-year-old Zebra battery transitions into its operational state and can immediately begin charging and discharging with no observable loss in performance. This "on-demand activation" feature makes it particularly appealing for defense and strategic reserve applications, where batteries may need to be stored for extended periods and rapidly deployed when needed. In fact, such systems could be buried underground or warehoused for decades and reactivated without any compromise in performance.

To validate this capability further, Altech's joint venture partner, Fraunhofer IKTS, has conducted a rigorous individual cell stress-testing program. The 28-year-old cell is currently undergoing daily charge and discharge cycling at 300 degC across a 20-80% state of charge (SoC) range. The tests confirm not only the battery's safe operation but also its consistent performance across the full capacity spectrum.

This breakthrough reaffirms the robustness, safety, and strategic advantage of CERENERGY(R) sodium-nickel-chloride battery technology, setting it apart from conventional storage solutions in terms of reliability and long-term stability.

About Altech Batteries Ltd:

Altech Batteries Limited (ASX:ATC) (FRA:A3Y) is a specialty battery technology company that has a joint venture agreement with world leading German battery institute Fraunhofer IKTS ("Fraunhofer") to commercialise the revolutionary CERENERGY(R) Sodium Alumina Solid State (SAS) Battery. CERENERGY(R) batteries are the game-changing alternative to lithium-ion batteries. CERENERGY(R) batteries are fire and explosion-proof; have a life span of more than 15 years and operate in extreme cold and desert climates. The battery technology uses table salt and is lithium-free; cobalt-free; graphite-free; and copper-free, eliminating exposure to critical metal price rises and supply chain concerns.

The joint venture is commercialising its CERENERGY(R) battery, with plans to construct a 100MWh production facility on Altech's land in Saxony, Germany. The facility intends to produce CERENERGY(R) battery modules to provide grid storage solutions to the market.

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VIDEO: Altech Batteries Ltd Silumina Anodes Project Update

Perth, Australia (ABN Newswire) - Altech Batteries Limited (ASX:ATC) (FRA:A3Y) (OTCMKTS:ALTHF) is pleased to provide an update of the Silumina AnodesTM Project. This Company's game changing technology incorporates high-capacity silicon into lithium-ion batteries. Through in house R&D, the Company has cracked the "silicon code" and successfully achieved a 30% higher energy battery with improved cyclability or battery life. The Company's proprietary silicon product is registered as Silumina AnodesTM.

Highlights

- Spherisation of coated silicon particles- newest technological development

- Positioned in voids of graphite layer - further reducing impact of swelling

- Optimised 5% silicon content gives 50% capacity increase

- Pilot plant in Germany now operational

- All challenges resolved and ready for customer testing

SPHERISATION OF COATED SILICON

As previously noted, key challenges in using silicon in lithium-ion battery anodes include particle swelling, first-cycle capacity loss of up to 50%, and rapid battery degradation. Altech's initial approach involved coating individual silicon particles with a nanolayer of alumina to reduce expansion and mitigate first-cycle loss. This method proved effective. Building on this success, the next phase of development involved spherifying the coated silicon particles and applying additional coatings to the spherical structures (refer Figure 1*). These spherical, alumina-coated silicon particles can be effectively distributed within the voids of graphite, helping to minimise long-term damage to the electrode layer caused by expansion (refer Figure 2*). By residing in these voids, the particles can move without exerting stress on the surrounding graphite sheets. Additionally, the Company's R&D laboratory has optimised silicon content to a 5% addition, which has delivered a 50% capacity performance improvement in battery applications. The improvement in battery anode capacity can be seen in Figure 3 and 4*.

SUCCESSFUL PILOT PLANT OPERATION

Altech is in a race to get its patented technology to market. To support the development, Altech constructed a pilot plant adjacent to the proposed project site to enable the qualification process for its Silumina AnodesTM product. Coated silicon products are now being successfully produced at the Company's pilot plant located at Dock 3 in Saxony, Germany. The commissioning process presented a number of technical challenges, primarily related to the equipment delivery delays, supply of SiC materials, poor flowability and handling difficulties of the ultra-fine silicon powders used in the process - particles measuring less than one micron in size. These powders tended to cause hang-ups and blockages within the system, complicating consistent material movement and process stability. However, through a combination of engineering adjustments and process optimisations, these issues have now been resolved. The pilot plant is now operational and has produced high-quality coated silicon particles. These products are ready for evaluation and testing by potential customers, marking a key milestone in the commercialisation pathway.

Group Managing Director Iggy Tan said "The next generation of our development, leveraging spherization technology, has successfully addressed the long-standing challenges of silicon-namely swelling and rapid degradation. We've achieved a battery with 50% higher energy density and enhanced cycle life, all with a modest addition of silicon. Our proprietary alumina-coated, spherical silicon particles represent a breakthrough in battery anode materials. Production at our pilot plant in Saxony marks a significant milestone, and we are actively engaging with potential customers for evaluation. This progress places Altech at the forefront of next-generation battery technology as we move toward commercialisation."

To view the Video Update, please visit:
https://www.abnnewswire.net/lnk/75FWT03F

About Altech Batteries Ltd:

Altech Batteries Limited (ASX:ATC) (FRA:A3Y) is a specialty battery technology company that has a joint venture agreement with world leading German battery institute Fraunhofer IKTS ("Fraunhofer") to commercialise the revolutionary CERENERGY(R) Sodium Alumina Solid State (SAS) Battery. CERENERGY(R) batteries are the game-changing alternative to lithium-ion batteries. CERENERGY(R) batteries are fire and explosion-proof; have a life span of more than 15 years and operate in extreme cold and desert climates. The battery technology uses table salt and is lithium-free; cobalt-free; graphite-free; and copper-free, eliminating exposure to critical metal price rises and supply chain concerns.

The joint venture is commercialising its CERENERGY(R) battery, with plans to construct a 100MWh production facility on Altech's land in Saxony, Germany. The facility intends to produce CERENERGY(R) battery modules to provide grid storage solutions to the market.

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Altech Batteries Ltd CERENERGY at Hannover International Industrial Fair

Perth, Australia (ABN Newswire) - Altech Batteries Limited (ASX:ATC) (FRA:A3Y) (OTCMKTS:ALTHF) is pleased to announce that the Company showcased it's CERENERGY(R) Battery technology at the prestigious Hannover Messe 2025, the world's leading industrial trade fair. The event, which annually attracts over 200,000 visitors and 6,500 exhibitors from across the globe, provided Altech with a prime platform to introduce CERENERGY(R) to key stakeholders in the energy storage sector.

Altech's CERENERGY(R) was prominently featured in the Energy Storage Hall, drawing significant attention from industry leaders, potential partners, and investors eager to explore next-generation solutions for clean energy storage. The company's participation is part of a broader strategic effort to secure a strong commercial partner to help accelerate the commercialization of its sodium-alumina solid-state battery technology.

Throughout the event, Altech held numerous high-level meetings with representatives from energy companies, industrial manufacturers, and strategic investors looking to tap into the rapidly growing energy storage market. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, reflecting strong global demand for advanced battery technologies that can deliver high performance while reducing reliance on critical raw materials such as lithium and cobalt.

The Hannover Messe exhibition comes at a time when Germany is ramping up its defense and clean energy investments, driven in part by growing geopolitical uncertainties and the ongoing EU:US trade war. With energy security becoming a top priority, Altech's CERENERGY(R) technology aligns perfectly with Europe's strategic push towards energy independence and industrial resilience.

Group Managing Director Iggy Tan said "We are delighted by the level of interest in our CERENERGY(R) battery technology at Hannover Messe. The feedback we've received from potential partners and industry players has been extremely encouraging. As countries and industries accelerate their transition towards renewable energy, we see CERENERGY(R) as a game-changer in providing cost-effective, safe, and sustainable battery solutions."

*To view photographs, please visit:
https://abnnewswire.net/lnk/8J6TA5ZV

About Altech Batteries Ltd:

Altech Batteries Limited (ASX:ATC) (FRA:A3Y) is a specialty battery technology company that has a joint venture agreement with world leading German battery institute Fraunhofer IKTS ("Fraunhofer") to commercialise the revolutionary CERENERGY(R) Sodium Alumina Solid State (SAS) Battery. CERENERGY(R) batteries are the game-changing alternative to lithium-ion batteries. CERENERGY(R) batteries are fire and explosion-proof; have a life span of more than 15 years and operate in extreme cold and desert climates. The battery technology uses table salt and is lithium-free; cobalt-free; graphite-free; and copper-free, eliminating exposure to critical metal price rises and supply chain concerns.

The joint venture is commercialising its CERENERGY(R) battery, with plans to construct a 100MWh production facility on Altech's land in Saxony, Germany. The facility intends to produce CERENERGY(R) battery modules to provide grid storage solutions to the market.

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Resolution Minerals Ltd To Develop U.S. Government Engagement Strategy with Clewett Global Services

Adelaide, Australia (ABN Newswire) - Resolution Minerals Ltd (ASX:RML) (FRA:NC3) (OTCMKTS:RLMLF) is pleased to announce the selection of Clewett Global Services as external affairs advisers to support the development of the Horse Heaven Antimony-Gold-Silver-Tungsten project in Idaho, USA.

Highlights

- Engagement in Washington D.C. is a critical step in positioning RML as a trusted partner in the U.S. critical minerals supply chain

- Resolution to consider applying for U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) funding to expedite Horse Heaven Project in Idaho

- Neighbouring Perpetua Resources (PPTA.NAS) was fast-tracked for development in April 2025, and received up to US$74 million in DOD funding, highlighting strong U.S. Government commitment and support for antimony and other critical metal projects

- By aligning with U.S. Government strategic priorities, RML is actively enhancing its ability to progress Horse Heaven on a faster schedule

- Antimony, Silver, Gold and Tungsten trading at record-high prices

CLEWETT GLOBAL SERVICES APPOINTED TO WORK WITH RESOLUTION TO DEVELOP U.S. GOVERNMENT ENGAGEMENT STRATEGY

The Horse Heaven Project is located directly adjacent to NASDAQ-listed Perpetua Resources' $2 billion Stibnite Gold and Antimony Project, which recently gained final record of decision approval from the U.S. Forest Service.

Horse Heaven has strong gold, antimony and silver mineralisation in two highly prospective structurally controlled mineralised corridors, and includes past-producing antimony, tungsten and gold mines.

Historical exploration results from Horse Heaven are highly encouraging and indicate similar geological characteristics to the neighbouring Stibnite project.

Given the importance of antimony to the U.S. Government's critical minerals strategy, Resolution Minerals is excited to develop the Horse Heaven Project and will be actively seeking the support of the U.S. Government to expedite its progress.

Founding Partner of Clewett Global Services, Todd Clewett, is a seasoned external affairs executive with a track record of success in engaging decision makers in Washington D.C. regarding mining and critical minerals projects. Clewett formerly headed up the external affairs function for both Newmont Corporation and Fortescue.

Background

The U.S. government has prioritised domestic and allied sources of key minerals such as antimony, tungsten and gallium recognising their importance to defense applications and renewable technologies.

Until now, the U.S. has relied mainly on China for the supply of many critical metals. Following China's total ban on exports of these metals to the U.S. in late 2024, a priority of the new Administration is to shore up its own domestic supply chains of these materials.

Fast-41 Program

The FAST-41 program, established by Title 41 of the Fixing America's Surface Transportation Act (FAST Act), is a program designed to improve the timeliness, predictability, and transparency of the federal environmental review and permitting process.

FAST-41 is designed to streamline and expedite the permitting process for infrastructure and mining projects deemed nationally significant. FAST-41 can offer benefits to project developers, including increased predictability, transparency and faster decision-making.

Some projects currently covered under FAST-41 include:

- Perpetua Resources' (PPTA.NAS) Stibnite Gold Project in Idaho

- Stillwater Palladium & Platinum Project in Montana

- Jindalee Resources' (ASX:JLL) McDermitt Lithium Project in Oregon

- BPH and RIO's Resolution Copper Project in Arizona

- South32's (ASX:S32) Hermosa Critical Minerals Project in Arizona

Resolution Minerals' efforts to participate in the FAST-41 program follow the precedent set in April this year by next-door neighbour, NASDAQ-listed Perpetua Resources (PPTA.NAS), whose Stibnite Gold Project in Idaho became the first mining project accepted under FAST-41, and by ASX-listed Jindalee Lithium Limited (ASX:JLL), whose McDermitt Lithium Project in Oregon was also successfully fasttracked under FAST-41 in April.

2025 Budget Reconciliation Bill ('Big Beautiful Bill')

The proposed 2025 Budget Reconciliation Bill includes US$2.5 billion to support U.S. production of critical minerals via the National Defense Stockpile. In addition, there is US$500 million allocated to the Department of Defense Credit Program for loans, loan guarantees, and technical assistance aimed at developing reliable sources of critical minerals - both within the U.S. and among key international allies.

Congress is expected to pass this bill (in some form) by the end of July 2025. Resolution has commenced plans to pursue all its available options to apply for funding that may become available upon passing of this proposed bill.

Resolution is considering opportunities under the U.S. Department of Defense's Title III and Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment (IBAS) programs, which support the development of reliable and resilient supply chains for critical minerals.

RML's Executive Director, Aharon Zaetz commented:

"We are extremely honoured for Todd Clewett to want to work with us. We feel very excited that he shares the enthusiasm for the Horse Heaven project and sees the massive potential here. Todd's experience in working with governments to develop mining projects will be an invaluable asset to RML.

Todd's experience, knowledge and network in the White House provides him with an extremely rare and unique skillset that RML shareholders are extremely privileged to benefit from.

About Resolution Minerals Ltd:

Resolution Minerals Ltd (ASX:RML) is a mineral exploration company engaged in the acquisition, exploration and development of precious and battery metals - such as antimony, gold, copper, and uranium.

Resolution Minerals Ltd Listed on the ASX in 2017 and has a broad portfolio of assets, such as the Drake East Antimony-Gold Project in north-eastern NSW and George Project prospective for silica sand and uranium.

Source:
Resolution Minerals Ltd

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Lithium Universe Ltd Acquisition of Solar Panel Recycling Technology

Melbourne, Australia (ABN Newswire) - Lithium Universe Limited (ASX:LU7) (FRA:KU00) (OTCMKTS:LUVSF) has entered into a binding agreement to acquire the global rights to commercially exploit a patented photovoltaic ("PV") solar panel recycling technology known as "Microwave Joule Heating Technology" ("MJHT" or the "Technology").

Highlights

- Agreement to acquire global rights photovoltaic (PV) solar panel recycling technology

- "Microwave Joule Heating Technology" (MJHT) from Macquarie University

- Utilises microwave technology to selectively heat and delaminate PV cells

- 60-78 million tonnes of waste photovoltaic (PV) modules cumulated by 2050

- Today only 15% of waste solar cells are recycled worldwide

- Most end up in land fill as valuable waste

- Hard to recycle, high temperature furnace, toxic chemicals, low recovery

- MJHT and Delamination enables selective separation of materials - higher recoveries

- To investigate further recovery of silver, silicon, gallium and indium

- Binding commitments received to raise $1.7 million via placement to existing and new sophisticated and professional investors

The rights will be secured via an exclusive licensing agreement ("Licensing Agreement") with Macquarie University ("MQU"), held through an Australian-incorporated holding company, New Age Minerals Pty Ltd ("NAM"). The key terms of the Licensing Agreement are set out in Schedule 1*. The transaction will be effected by LU7 acquiring 100% of the issued share capital of NAM ("Proposed Transaction").

The basis of the technology platform utilises microwave technology to selectively heat silicon thereby softening the EVA encapsulant in solar panels, enabling easy delamination and potential recovery of valuable materials at room temperature. This approach avoids the need for extreme heat (1400degC) typically required for separating materials like glass and silicon as well as the use of costly hazardous chemicals in traditional processes. Delamination enables selective separation of materials without the need for mechanical crushing, whereas traditional crushing methods often result in cross-contaminated material and lower recovery rates.

A report published by the International Energy Agency Photovoltaic Power Systems Programme1 projected that global waste PV modules will amount to 1.7-8.0 million tonnes cumulatively by 2030 and 60-78 million tonnes cumulatively by 2050. By 2035, Australia is expected to accumulate 1 million tonnes of solar panel waste worth over A$1 billion, while the global CIGS (Copper, Indium, Gallium, Selenide) solar cell market is projected to grow to US$12.23 billion by 2032.

Currently, only 15% of used PV cells are recycled, with the rest accumulating in landfills.

This low recycling rate is due to complex processes, high-temperature furnaces, toxic chemicals, and poor recovery yields. The Technology, developed by MQU, enhances the extraction of valuable metals such as silver, silicon, gallium, and indium from discarded PV panels using microwave and delaminating techniques. The breakthrough technology offers a promising new approach for enhanced recovery of valuable metals like Silver, Silicon, Gallium, and Indium. The Company plans to initiate further research and development in this area.

THE PROBLEM TODAY

The world's renewable energy transition is moving fast, with large-scale PV solar panels playing a central role in national energy strategies. The global solar cell market is projected to hit US$39.81 billion by 2037, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 8.2%.

Approximately 37% of Australian households have installed solar panels. This represents over 4 million homes and small businesses with solar power systems. The Clean Energy Council reports that 12.4% of Australia's electricity generation in 2024 came from rooftop solar.

However, as these panels approach the end of their 25-30-year lifespan, the industry faces a growing challenge: managing solar panel waste and recovering valuable materials. A report published by International Energy Agency Photovoltaic Power Systems Programme (IEA PVPS) Task12 and the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in 2016 projected world's waste PV modules globally to amount to 1,7-8,0 million tonnes cumulatively by 2030 and to 60-78 million tonnes cumulatively by 2050. By 2035, Australia alone is expected to accumulate 1 million tonnes of end-of-life solar panels, with a total material value of over $1 billion. By 2045, Australia could be looking at 34.6 GW of serviceable panels that will need to be recycled or repurposed, equivalent to the total installed solar capacity in the country as of August 2024.

LOW RECYCLING RATES

The global recycling rate for PV solar panels is around 15%, driven by several challenges. The recycling process is complex, requiring high temperatures and toxic chemicals, making it costly and energy intensive. Economic incentives are limited as the recovery of valuable materials like silicon does not provide sufficient financial returns. However, if recycling technologies can effectively attract and recover critical materials like silver, silicon, gallium, and indium, the financial viability of recycling improves, driving higher recycling rates.

Additionally, the lack of recycling infrastructure and the diverse materials in panels further complicate efficient separation, but advancements in technology are addressing these issues.

When waste PV cells aren't recycled, they often end up in landfills, causing numerous environmental problems.

Panels can contain harmful materials like cadmium and lead, which may leak into the ground and water, posing risks to both ecosystems and human health. Valuable metals like silver, silicon, gallium, and indium are lost, adding to the strain on natural resources. As more solar panels reach the end of their life, landfills fill up, and the energy stored in these materials is wasted. Recycling can help solve these issues by recovering critical materials and cutting down on pollution.

POTENTIAL GROWTH OF PV RECYCLING INDUSTRY

The nascent PV solar panel recycling industry is experiencing rapid growth due to the increasing demand for critical metals such as silicon, silver, and indium, which hold substantial economic value. As the market for endof-life (EoL) solar panels expands, driven by both economic opportunities and environmental needs, the recovery of these materials is becoming a lucrative business. The market for recyclable materials from EoL solar panels is projected to reach over $2.7 billion by 2030 and could approach $80 billion by 2050, according to Rystad Energy. This growth is further fuelled by the fact that recovering materials from used panels can offset the need for costly and environmentally damaging virgin material extraction. Additionally, recycling helps secure a domestic supply of critical metals, reducing reliance on volatile foreign sources. Advancements in recycling technology, particularly in recovering high-value materials like silicon and silver, are making these processes more economically viable and environmentally necessary. Research has demonstrated that up to 98% of silver and nearly all of copper, lead, and other valuable metals can be recovered efficiently, enhancing the profitability of the recycling industry. As technology improves, the recycling of PV panels will play a crucial role in supporting the transition to a circular economy and sustainable energy future.

CRITICAL METALS IN PV CELLS

As the demand for critical minerals continues to rise with the global shift to clean energy, the need to recover valuable materials from these panels becomes increasingly urgent. Solar panels are made up of 95% recyclable materials, including silver, aluminum, silicon, copper, indium, and gallium-all of which are vital to global clean energy supply chains. Rare metals like gallium are essential for solar fuel cells, semiconductor chips, and other high-tech applications, making their recovery from e-waste a key priority.

COMMENTS: EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN, IGGY TAN

"Now that we have completed our lithium refinery DFS and secured all necessary components-including land and partnerships-we are positioned and ready for a lithium price recovery. We are confident in our counter-cyclical strategy and firmly believe that LU7 will benefit significantly when the lithium market rebounds. While awaiting this recovery, we have been presented with an exciting opportunity to acquire a cutting-edge photovoltaic recycling technology".

"I am thrilled about the acquisition of Macquarie University's Microwave Joule Heating Technology (MJHT) and the opportunity to potentially extract critical metals such as silver from solar panel recycling.

The need for effective PV recycling has never been greater, with only 15% of panels currently being recycled. The mass accumulation of solar panel waste in landfills is a growing problem, as valuable critical metals like silver, silicon, gallium, and indium are left behind, contributing to both resource depletion and environmental harm. Microwave technology offers a promising solution to these challenges, enabling higher recovery rates and more sustainable recycling processes. We firmly believe that this technology represents the future of solar panel waste management. We are eager to collaborate with the Macquarie team to develop a more efficient and cost-effective recycling process".

*To view the full release with tables and figures, please visit:
https://abnnewswire.net/lnk/A0938OHA

To view the Market Presentation, please visit:
https://www.abnnewswire.net/lnk/JJ10ITOI

About Lithium Universe Ltd:

Lithium Universe Ltd (ASX:LU7) (FRA:KU00) (OTCMKTS:LUVSF), headed by industry trail blazer, Iggy Tan, and the Lithium Universe team has a proven track record of fast-tracking lithium projects, demonstrated by the successful development of the Mt Cattlin spodumene project for Galaxy Resources Limited.

Instead of exploring for the sake of exploration, Lithium Universe's mission is to quickly obtain a resource and construct a spodumene-producing mine in Quebec, Canada. Unlike many other Lithium exploration companies, Lithium Universe possesses the essential expertise and skills to develop and construct profitable projects.

Source:
Lithium Universe Ltd

News Provided by ABN Newswire via QuoteMedia

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