Major Players in Energy to Converge at Landmark Lithium Innovation Summit in Arkansas

Posted on December 19, 2023
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Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Industry Leaders to Headline Event

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (December 19, 2023) — A landmark event focused on Arkansas’ rapidly evolving lithium industry is set to take place in Little Rock on February 15-16, 2024, and registration is now open. The Arkansas Lithium Innovation Summit, presented by Standard Lithium, ExxonMobil, Albemarle, and TETRA Technologies, will bring together industry leaders, policymakers, and key stakeholders to highlight the significant role of lithium in the energy transition and how Arkansas is strategically positioning itself in this vital sector. 

In order to provide a comprehensive perspective on the opportunities and challenges in the lithium industry, from extraction to market, the summit will include keynotes from Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders and Arkansas Secretary of Commerce Hugh McDonald. Key sessions include insights from global lithium expert Joe Lowry, and industry analyst Andy Miller.

“Arkansas’ energy industry is taking off, with oil, gas, and now lithium extraction transforming our state. I’m thrilled that Little Rock will play host to the landmark Lithium Innovation Summit and look forward to meeting with many of this industry’s key stakeholders. In my administration, I’ll keep cutting taxes, investing in our workforce, and slashing red tape to help lithium and every other industry thrive,” said Governor Sanders.

Visit bit.ly/AR-Lithium-Summit for registration and sponsorship information, as well as event details.

Event keynotes will span various topics, including: 

  • The development of vertically integrated supply chains, spanning from mining and mineral extraction to the production of batteries and electric vehicles
  • Stakeholder satisfaction within the industry
  • Investment trends and opportunities in Arkansas
  • Infrastructure developments supporting lithium production
  • How to foster innovation and workforce development in the state to align with the growing demands of the lithium industry

“The Arkansas Lithium Innovation Summit marks a critical juncture as Arkansas takes center stage in the global shift toward sustainable energy,” said Hugh McDonald, Arkansas Secretary of Commerce. “This gathering will be a convergence of vision and action, spotlighting how our state is preparing for the lithium industry’s growth. Arkansas’ unique position in this sector, including our natural resources and industry expertise, makes it an ideal location for this event, which will bring together industry experts, suppliers, community leaders and investors.”

“The upcoming Arkansas Lithium Innovation Summit underscores the national focus and attention that Standard Lithium’s persistent efforts and hard work have steered towards Arkansas, shaping a narrative that has brought us to this milestone,” said Robert Mintak, CEO of Standard Lithium. “We look forward to collaborating with other industry leaders, state officials and key stakeholders exchanging insights, and together forging a bright future for lithium innovation in Arkansas.”

“Arkansas is poised to become a major domestic supplier of lithium, and we’re excited to be at the forefront of creating new jobs and attracting more investments for this great state,” said Patrick Howarth, Lithium Global Business Manager at ExxonMobil. “The region’s rich history of oil, gas, and bromine production and its well-established permitting structure make it a welcoming environment for our operations. We’re excited about the support from the government and local community thus far and look forward to collaborating further at the Arkansas Lithium Innovation Summit.”

Joining the Summit lineup are a host of representatives from key players, including Standard Lithium, Albemarle, ExxonMobil, TETRA Technologies, EaglePicher and more. Visit the event registration page for the full event agenda: bit.ly/AR-Lithium-Summit.

About The Arkansas Lithium Innovation Summit
As a hub for industry experts, policymakers, and business leaders, the Arkansas Lithium Innovation Summit is dedicated to advancing knowledge about the lithium landscape in Arkansas and around the world, promoting sustainable practices, and driving economic growth in the region. It serves as a catalyst for discussions that will shape the future of the lithium industry and its impact on energy, technology, and the environment.