Tesla’s lithium refinery in Robstown, Texas is on the fast track to production, with the company hoping to start operations early in 2024. According to Jason Bevan, Senior Manager of Operations at Tesla, preparations at the site are progressing swiftly.
The timeline for the refinery was outlined by Bevan while hosting a booth at the manufacturing day expo in Corpus Christi this week. In an interview with KIIITV, Bevan said the refinery will start “commissioning the assets” early in the year. This is the point at which the equipment has been installed and handed over to Tesla’s operations team. From there the facility will ramp production through the end of the year.
“We will begin commissioning the assets roughly at the start of next year, and this momentum will continue in earnest during the first half of the year. Production will ramp up in the latter half of 2024,” Bevan said.
Bevan also suggested potential for expansion of Tesla’s lithium refinery beyond the initial phase, emphasizing the positive economic impact it could have on both employees and the local community. “We have property that is well-suited for future expansion, extending beyond the initial two trains. So, there is ample opportunity for further economic growth beyond the direct jobs we create,” he added.
Tesla held a groundbreaking ceremony for their new lithium refinery in May 2023. The company has been actively recruiting talent to support the new facility in Robstown, just outside of Corpus Christi. Currently there are 41 job openings posted on Tesla’s careers website for roles including a Mechanical Commissioning Coordinator, Chemical Operator, Field Engineer, Lead Lab Technician, Analytical Chemistry Scientist, and many more.
