Elektros Inc. (OTC: ELEK), a rare-earth exploration firm, has unveiled a major lithium discovery in Sierra Leone that could rank among West Africa’s largest untapped deposits. Initial geological assessments suggest lithium concentrations significantly surpass earlier estimates, potentially positioning the company as a key player in the electric vehicle (EV) battery supply chain amid soaring global demand.
CEO Shlomo Bleier called the findings “transformative” for both the company and the energy sector, citing alignment with the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) forecast of up to 42-fold growth in lithium demand by 2040. The discovery arrives as automakers scramble to secure ethically sourced, high-grade lithium—a cornerstone mineral for EV batteries—amid tightening supply and a projected 10% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) through 2026.
“This isn’t just about resource extraction; it’s about redefining energy infrastructure,” Bleier told CNBC, noting the deposit’s potential to diversify global lithium supplies currently dominated by Australia, Chile, and China. The development could ease bottlenecks in EV production, which Tesla CEO Elon Musk has repeatedly flagged as a critical constraint for the industry.
Key Opportunities
- Largest potential lithium deposit in West Africa
- Resource grade exceeds preliminary models
- Strategic foothold in $546B EV battery market (BloombergNEF 2025 estimate)
- Aligns with ESG-driven supply chain diversification
- IEA projects lithium deficits as early as 2027 without new sources
Operational Challenges
- Pre-production phase requires 3-5 years for feasibility studies
- Elevated country risk profile in Sierra Leone (World Bank 2024 Governance Index: 28th percentile)
- OTC listing limits institutional investor participation
- Lithium carbonate spot prices down 18% YTD (Benchmark Mineral Intelligence)
05/25/2025 – 07:30 AM
SUNNY ISLES BEACH, FL / ACCESS Newswire / May 25, 2025 / As the EV revolution enters its most supply-constrained chapter, Elektros’ Sierra Leone discovery underscores West Africa’s emerging role in the energy transition. The region’s largely untapped mineral wealth has drawn comparisons to the “lithium triangle” of South America, with geopolitical analysts noting reduced regulatory hurdles compared to resource-nationalist markets like Chile and Mexico.
Market Impact
The announcement sparked a 23% pre-market surge in Elektros’ shares, reflecting renewed retail investor interest in junior miners. However, industry veterans caution that successful commercialization hinges on navigating Africa’s complex public-private partnership frameworks. “The real test begins now,” said Rhodium Group metals strategist Livia Paggi. “Scaling African lithium requires balancing ESG commitments with infrastructural realities.”
Technological Edge
Elektros plans to deploy AI-driven exploration techniques to accelerate site assessment—a move that could compress the typical 10-year development timeline for hard-rock lithium projects. The approach mirrors Rio Tinto’s successful automation of its Serbian lithium venture, which reduced exploratory drilling costs by 40%.
Global Context
With China currently controlling 65% of lithium refining capacity (U.S. Geological Survey), Western automakers face mounting pressure to diversify suppliers. BMW and Ford recently signed rare offtake agreements with African miners, while Tesla continues vertical integration efforts through its Texas lithium refinery slated for 2026 completion.
Ethical Sourcing Angle
The Sierra Leone project’s potential for artisanal miner collaboration could set new industry standards. “Conflict-free certifications matter more than ever,” noted Benchmark Mineral Intelligence’s Daisy Jennings-Gray. “Car manufacturers now audit supply chains down to the quarry level.”
FAQ
What makes Sierra Leone lithium strategically important?
West Africa offers proximity to European and North American markets, with lower shipping costs than South American or Australian suppliers. The region’s undeveloped reserves also reduce geopolitical concentration risk.
How does lithium’s price volatility affect Elektros?
While current prices reflect a market surplus from expanded Chilean production, long-term contracts now include inflation-adjusted clauses. Elektros could benefit from anticipated 2027 supply deficits.
What are the next steps for the project?
Elektros must complete detailed feasibility studies, secure mining licenses, and finalize partnership agreements. Successful execution could position the company for acquisition by majors like Albemarle or Livent.
About Elektros Inc.
The Florida-based firm specializes in critical mineral exploration, leveraging advanced geospatial analytics to identify high-potential lithium and rare earth deposits. Its asset portfolio spans three continents, with Sierra Leone representing its flagship development.
Cautionary Note
This report contains forward-looking statements subject to operational, regulatory, and commodity price risks. Elektros’ OTC listing and early-stage assets entail higher volatility than established miners.
View the original press release here.
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