The Electra Battery Metals refinery near Temiskaming Shores, Ont. Photo: ElectraBMC
The Ontario government says it’s backing a nearly $100-million investment from Electra Battery Materials to establish North America’s first battery-grade cobalt sulphate refinery in Temiskaming Shores.
The facility will process nearly 6,500 tonnes of cobalt annually, a critical component in electric vehicle batteries, and create local jobs while strengthening domestic supply chains.
“Under Premier Ford, Ontario is building a self-reliant economy linking Northern Ontario’s mineral wealth with Southern Ontario’s manufacturing,” said Minister Vic Fedeli. “Electra’s investment cements Ontario’s leadership in EV battery manufacturing.”
Ontario will contribute $17.5 million through the Invest Ontario Fund. Minister of Northern Economic Development George Pirie highlighted the economic benefits: “A prosperous North is integral for a prosperous Ontario. This facility brings good jobs and opportunities while advancing critical mineral processing in Ontario.”
Electra CEO Trent Mell emphasized the strategic importance of the project, saying it reduces reliance on overseas suppliers and supports a cleaner energy future. Khawar Nasim, CEO of Invest Ontario, added that the refinery is a key step toward a complete made-in-Ontario critical minerals supply chain, aligning with the province’s Critical Minerals Strategy.
Ontario’s abundant deposits of cobalt, lithium, nickel, and other minerals make the province an ideal hub for battery materials innovation and clean technology development. By processing these resources locally, the province says Ontario strengthens its economic resilience and positions itself as a leader in advanced manufacturing and renewable energy sectors.
The Electra refinery underscores Ontario’s commitment to domestic production, economic growth in the north, and long-term leadership in clean energy technologies.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
