The U.S. Department of Energy has awarded $3 billion to boost the electric vehicle and battery supply chain, with two major projects in southwest Arkansas set to receive significant funding.
Companies in Texarkana and Lewisville, which extract lithium from brine, were selected. Terra-Volta Resources in Miller County will receive $225 million to build a manufacturing facility. Rob Sitterley, president of ARTX REDI, said this will bring jobs and investments that could transform the region’s economy.
Standard Lithium, also receiving $225 million, will develop a facility near Lewisville. CEO David Park expects the project to create 300 construction jobs and 100 permanent positions, with potential for more in future phases.
The Department of Energy’s funding spans 14 states and will create approximately 12,000 jobs, most in construction.
