Stardust Power Breaks Ground on Major Lithium Refinery in Oklahoma

Stardust Power Inc. has begun construction on a battery-grade lithium refinery in eastern Oklahoma, a project poised to become one of the largest of its kind in the U.S. as Washington pushes to reduce reliance on foreign critical minerals. The facility, located on a 66-acre site at Muskogee’s Southside Industrial Park, aims to produce up to 50,000 metric tons of lithium annually while creating hundreds of jobs in a region historically tied to oil and gas.

The company finalized the site acquisition in late 2024, selecting Muskogee for its access to the Arkansas River inland waterway, rail networks, and highways, as well as its proximity to skilled labor from Oklahoma’s energy sector. Stardust Power holds rights to an adjacent 40-acre parcel for potential expansion, with initial permits and environmental reviews already secured. The refinery will be built in two phases: the first, targeting 25,000 metric tons per year, is slated for completion by 2027, followed by a second phase to double capacity.

Oklahoma Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell and Muskogee Mayor Patrick Cale attended the groundbreaking, framing the project as a strategic win for both local economic growth and national supply chain security. “This isn’t just about jobs—it’s about ensuring America controls its own critical resources,” Pinnell said. Cale noted the refinery aligns with broader efforts to position the region as a hub for advanced manufacturing.

Stardust Power CEO Roshan Pujari emphasized the refinery’s role in countering China’s dominance in lithium processing, which accounts for roughly 60% of global production. The U.S. currently imports most of its battery-grade lithium, a vulnerability lawmakers have sought to address through incentives for domestic projects.

The development is expected to generate hundreds of permanent engineering and operational roles, with temporary construction jobs providing an additional boost. While the company has not detailed specific environmental safeguards, it cited “responsible practices” as central to its design.

The project arrives as U.S. refiners race to build capacity amid rising demand for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage. Analysts estimate the nation will need at least 10 new lithium facilities by 2035 to meet projected needs—a goal complicated by permitting delays and community opposition. Stardust Power’s timeline hinges on securing final regulatory approvals and equipment deliveries, though executives express confidence in avoiding bottlenecks.