LibertyStream's Strategic Pivot: A Lithium Production Powerhouse Emerges in North America

The energy transition has created a paradox: the world's largest oil and gas basins are now sitting atop a lithium boom. Volt Lithium's rebranding to LibertyStream Infrastructure Partners Inc. (pending regulatory approval) marks a bold strategic shift to capitalize on this opportunity. By leveraging existing oilfield infrastructure and advancing its Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) technology, LibertyStream is positioning itself to become a near-term leader in North American lithium production. Here's why investors should take notice.

The Rebrand: From Lithium Explorer to Infrastructure Partner

LibertyStream's name change reflects a deliberate pivot from a traditional mining model to a partnership-driven approach. Instead of competing for scarce brine rights, the company is aligning with oilfield operators to extract lithium from produced water—a byproduct of oil and gas production. This strategy slashes capital costs and regulatory hurdles, as LibertyStream repurposes existing saltwater disposal facilities and pipelines. The shift is validated by its recent $2.5 million funding from North Dakota's Clean Sustainable Energy Authority, signaling government confidence in its technology.

Bakken Basin: Lithium's New Frontier

The company's deployment of a mobile DLE unit in North Dakota's Bakken Basin—set for late June 2025—is a critical milestone. Bakken brines contain lithium concentrations nearly three times higher than those in the Permian Basin, where LibertyStream's Gen 5 DLE system (the largest in North America) already operates. This scalability underscores the technology's adaptability:

• Permian Basin: High-volume, low-grade brines processed at scale.
• Bakken Basin: Higher lithium concentrations enabling faster ROI.

Combined, these basins could produce up to 220,000 tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) annually, rivaling established South American and Australian producers.

Cost Efficiency: The Oilfield Advantage

LibertyStream's cost structure is a standout advantage. By avoiding the need to build new infrastructure, the company can achieve operational costs as low as $2,000–$3,000 per tonne of LCE, far below the $6,000–$10,000 typical for hard-rock or brine-based lithium projects. This is particularly compelling as lithium prices stabilize post-peak (currently ~$40,000/tonne).

The partnership with Wellspring Hydro exemplifies this model. By integrating DLE units into existing oilfield systems, LibertyStream reduces both upfront capital and long-term maintenance costs, creating a “plug-and-play” solution for operators.

Validation Through Funding and Partnerships

North Dakota's $2.5 million investment isn't merely financial—it's a stamp of approval from a state deeply invested in its oil industry. The funding comes from the Clean Sustainable Energy Authority, which prioritizes projects that merge energy production with environmental benefits. This aligns with LibertyStream's dual mission: enabling oilfield operators to monetize waste streams while supplying critical minerals for EV batteries.

The appointment of De Visser Gray LLP as auditors adds credibility, ensuring transparency as the company scales.

Investment Thesis: Near-Term Leadership in Lithium

LibertyStream's combination of strategic moves—proven DLE scalability, low-cost infrastructure partnerships, and geographic diversification—positions it to outpace competitors. Key catalysts for investors include:

1. TSXV Regulatory Approval: Once the rebrand to “LIB” is finalized, the company will gain visibility as a dedicated infrastructure partner, attracting ESG-focused investors.
2. Bakken DLE Deployment: Demonstrating lithium recovery rates in high-concentration brines will solidify its technology's reputation.
3. Off-Take Partnerships: Early sample distributions to potential buyers (e.g., battery manufacturers) could lead to long-term contracts, locking in revenue streams.

Risks and Considerations

• Regulatory Delays: While shareholder approval is secured, TSXV delays could temporarily stall momentum.
• Lithium Price Volatility: A prolonged dip in lithium prices could compress margins.

However, these risks are mitigated by LibertyStream's low-cost model and the structural demand for North American lithium. The U.S. Inflation Reduction Act's incentives for domestic production further tilt the odds in the company's favor.

Conclusion: A Lithium Play with Immediate Catalysts

LibertyStream's pivot to infrastructure-led lithium production is a masterstroke. By leveraging the Bakken's rich brines, existing oilfield assets, and government backing, it's building a cost-efficient, scalable business model. With regulatory approvals on the horizon and a proven DLE track record, this is a rare opportunity to invest in a company primed to dominate a critical supply chain for the EV revolution.

For investors, Volt Lithium (VLI:TSXV) is a buy now—before the rebrand unlocks its full potential. The road to LIB is paved with lithium.