CleanTech Lithium PLC (AIM:CTL, OTCQX:CTLHF) has submitted expressions of interest (RFIs) to the Chilean government for five lithium projects as part of receiving a Special Lithium Operating Contract (CEOL) to produce the metal.
A response from the Chilean government on the RFIs process is expected around 9th July 2024, when it will give more detail on how projects move forward to the award of a CEOL, CleanTech Lithium (CTL) added.
RFIs have been submitted for CTL's two most advanced projects; Laguna Verde and Viento Andino (previously known as Francisco Basin) plus three additional submissions for unnamed projects in partnership with other parties.
In a statement, CTL said the RFIs emphasise progress using its Direct Lithium Extraction, early community engagement and full alignment with Chile´s National Lithium Strategy.
CTL added it changed the name of the Francisco Basin project to highlight that the project area is outside the area of a national park of a similar name located in the basin.
Steve Kesler, executive chairman and interim CEO, said: "We are very pleased to confirm the Expressions of Interest have been submitted to the Chilean government ahead of the deadline set by the Ministry of Mining.
“These submissions are a required step in the process to be awarded a CEOL by the Government, and the granting of a CEOL is key to becoming a lithium producer, subject to environmental impact assessments which are already underway.”