Wedoany.com Report-Jun 26, Halliburton has secured a contract to plan and design demonstration wells for GeoFrame Energy’s geothermal and direct lithium extraction (DLE) project in the Smackover Formation, East Texas. The project, announced in April 2025, is set to begin work in late 2025, targeting the production of approximately 83,500 metric tons of battery-grade lithium carbonate annually.

Areal extent of the Smackover Formation

GeoFrame Energy’s initiative will utilize advanced solvent extraction technology developed by Ekosolve Inc. and the University of Melbourne, achieving a lithium recovery rate of 92 to 95% with lower capital and operational costs and a reduced environmental footprint. The project marks the first effort to extract lithium carbonate from the Smackover Formation, a vast limestone aquifer rich in mineral brine, offering significant economic and strategic benefits through a domestic lithium supply.

The project integrates geothermal energy to power its operations. Geothermal fluids will drive binary cycle generators, fully supplying electricity for the DLE and lithium carbonate production facilities, with surplus energy sold to the grid. This approach enhances sustainability by combining renewable energy with efficient lithium extraction.

Bruce Cutright, CEO of GeoFrame Energy, stated: “GeoFrame Energy’s East Texas Project will lead the United States’ domestic lithium production and will be the first to deliver battery-grade lithium carbonate from the Smackover Formation. Halliburton, as a critical member of our team, will support the drilling phase of our project through the construction, design, and operation of the demonstration wells and the expansion into full field development.”

Halliburton’s role includes overseeing the design and construction of the demonstration wells, laying the foundation for full-scale development. The Smackover Formation’s permeable structure supports efficient extraction, positioning the project as a key contributor to the U.S. battery supply chain.

By leveraging advanced technology and geothermal energy, the project aligns with the growing demand for sustainable lithium sources for battery production. It supports economic growth in East Texas through job creation and infrastructure development while contributing to a reliable, domestically sourced supply of critical materials for clean energy technologies.