USTDA Funds Pilot of U.S. Critical Mineral Recovery Technology in Indonesia

Arlington, VA - The U.S. Trade and Development Agency is supporting the deployment of innovative U.S. technology to diversify U.S. critical minerals supply chains by increasing lithium recovery from Indonesia's geothermal energy operations. Through a USTDA-funded pilot project, California-based Lilac Solutions, Inc. (Lilac) will demonstrate its technology at Indonesia's state-owned geothermal developer PT Geo Dipa Energi's (GDE) facilities. This will be Indonesia's first facility to draw lithium from geothermal brine. The project will create a trusted source for the supply of lithium, an important component of many modern technologies, while supporting a vital energy source for Indonesia.

"America's security and prosperity depend on access to critical minerals from trusted sources," said Thomas R. Hardy, USTDA's Deputy Director. "This project highlights the value of U.S. solutions in building resilient supply chains and advancing responsible resource development with our partners in Indonesia."

Lilac will deploy its ion exchange direct lithium recovery technology at the Dieng geothermal field in Central Java, showcasing its responsible and effective method for recovery and processing lithium into high-grade lithium carbonate. USTDA's support will also connect GDE with potential U.S. buyers of the lithium carbonate produced. By demonstrating the success and scalability of Lilac's technology, the project aims to attract financing for future expansion and unlock new opportunities for the extensive geothermal landscape in Indonesia and across the Indo-Pacific region.

"USTDA's support marks an important step in strengthening Indonesia's independence in meeting its lithium needs and reinforcing strategic collaboration between Indonesia and the United States," said Yudistian Yunis, President Director of GDE. "This initiative can support the development of Indonesia's battery industry and other domestic lithium-based applications by unlocking additional value from renewable resources. The lithium is naturally present in geothermal brine that is already part of existing geothermal operations, allowing us to create economic benefits for local communities while maintaining strong environmental stewardship."

Mr. Yudis added that USTDA's support plays a catalytic role by accelerating access to advanced American innovation and expertise while facilitating connections with potential U.S. off-takers. By demonstrating a responsible and commercially viable model, the collaboration is expected to attract further investment and strengthen long-term project scalability. Mr. Yunis elaborated that the partnership reflects a mutually beneficial framework that enhances supply chain resilience, promotes sustainable resource management, and delivers shared strategic value for both Indonesia and the United States.

Raef Sully, CEO of Lilac, said, "USTDA opens doors for U.S. technology companies to compete globally. Indonesia's geothermal fields hold significant untapped lithium potential, and this project will demonstrate that American ion exchange technology can unlock them responsibly and at scale."

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The U.S. Trade and Development Agency is the U.S. government's first mover on critical infrastructure development in emerging markets, advancing the shared strategic priorities of the United States and our overseas partners while creating opportunities to deploy trusted U.S. solutions. USTDA funds the upfront technical work that accelerates the development of infrastructure projects, helping them attract the financing they need for implementation and procurement of U.S. goods and services.

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