Lithium Energy’s MT Survey Maps Two Aquifers, Paving Way for Drilling

Exploration Advances at White Plains

Lithium Energy Limited (ASX – LEL) has taken a significant step forward in its quest to delineate lithium brine resources at the White Plains Lithium Brine Project in Utah. The company recently completed a comprehensive Magnetotelluric (MT) geophysical survey, deploying 97 stations across the project area. This survey builds on earlier passive seismic work and historical data, providing a more detailed image of the subsurface geology and potential lithium-bearing formations.

Two Aquifers Identified

The MT survey results have revealed two distinct aquifers within the basin – a shallow near-surface Upper Aquifer and a deeper aquifer commencing at approximately 200 meters depth with a thickness of around 150 meters. These aquifers are interpreted to be hosted within a Half Graben Basin structure, a geological setting known to be conducive to lithium brine accumulation. The presence of these conductive brine layers, indicated by low resistivity zones in the MT data, is highly encouraging for the potential of lithium mineralisation.

Integration and Next Steps

By integrating the new MT data with previous passive seismic surveys and historical MT datasets, Lithium Energy has developed a refined geological model of the White Plains basin architecture. This model will guide the company’s upcoming exploration efforts, including further surface sampling and an initial drilling campaign designed to test the extent, grade, and hydrogeological properties of the lithium-bearing brines.

Notably, Lithium Energy has already completed a first pass 20-hole auger drilling program, with assay results currently pending. These results will be critical in validating the geophysical interpretations and informing the design of subsequent drilling programs aimed at delineating a maiden JORC-compliant Mineral Resource.

Strategic Location and Market Context

White Plains is strategically located about 200 kilometers west of Salt Lake City, adjacent to key infrastructure including US Highway 80 and near the town of Wendover. The region is a known lithium and potash hub, hosting projects by established players such as Intrepid Potash, US Magnesium, and Waterleaf Resources. Lithium Energy’s exploration success here could position it well within the growing US lithium supply chain, which is increasingly important amid global demand for battery metals.

Looking Ahead

While the geophysical data and initial drilling are promising, the company cautions that these results remain conceptual until assay data confirms lithium grades and economic viability. Nevertheless, the identification of two aquifers and the detailed basin imaging represent a meaningful advancement in the project’s exploration phase. Investors and industry watchers will be keenly awaiting the upcoming assay results and further drilling updates, which will clarify the project’s potential to contribute to the lithium market.