Column: Electric dreams turn into a nightmare for battery metals
A sector that was once racing to build new supply has been closing mines and deferring projects as low prices bite into the cost curve.
Li-Cycle on Monday raised the cost estimate for the construction of its Rochester Hub again to $960 million, even as the battery recycling company struggles with liquidity issues.
The increase in cost was primarily due to the refinement of the methodology used for estimating the project budget, it said.
In October, Li-Cyle paused the construction of its flagship battery recycling facility in Rochester, New York, and later said it was evaluating financing and strategic alternatives.
It had also raised the cost of the project to between $850 million and $1 billion in November, from $560 million earlier.
Li-Cyle said on Monday it continues to complete its comprehensive review work, including re-engaging and re-bidding construction subcontracts.
Last week, the company secured an additional $75 million investment through a convertible note from Swiss miner and commodities trader Glencore, to help with the Hub’s financing.
(By Kabir Dweit; Editing by Devika Syamnath)
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