First Phosphate is storming ahead with a new facility in Saguenay (La Baie), Quebec, for its innovative iron phosphate cathode active material precursor plant, fittingly named “First Saguenay.” The 10,000tpa plant will play a pivotal role in the production of lithium iron phosphate batteries, running in line with the demands of the green energy transition.
The formation of First Saguenay has harboured support from surrounding communities, as it’s set to create around 100 high-tech jobs in the Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean region. The smooth establishment of the plant and the opportunities it will provide to the area was made possible thanks to the support of local economic development organizations such as Promotions Saguenay, the Saguenay-Le Fjord Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCISF), Alliage 02, the Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean Economic Maximization Committee (CMAX), and the Pekuakamiulnuatsh First Nation.
“This announcement marks a significant milestone for phosphate mining and the LFP sector in our region,” said Ms. Andrée Laforest, Quebec Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister responsible for the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region. “The efforts of the First Phosphate team are finally coming to fruition, promising long-term benefits for our community and Port Saguenay.”
Éric Larouche, chairman of Promotion Saguenay, added, “First Saguenay is the first link in creating an LFP Battery Valley right here in Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean. Our goal is to build a North American value chain from phosphate mining to LFP battery production.”
François Tremblay, Quebec Member of Parliament for Dubuc, emphasized, “This commitment signals our potential to become a key player in the global battery ecosystem, contributing to global decarbonization efforts.”
First Saguenay will be housed adjacent to Logistique Proco Inc.’s existing processing plant. Proco, a well-established engineering and construction firm in Quebec, will serve as the building contractor. The facility, spanning over 305,000 square feet, is equipped with essential utilities and direct North American rail access, with ample space for future expansion.
This venture marks a significant step in establishing First Phosphate’s downstream operations in Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean, paving the way for a sustainable and prosperous future in the green energy sector.
