EnergyX
[Closed for Investment] EnergyX is raising funds through Reg A+ crowdfunding with Dealmaker as the Broker-Dealer. The company is leading the global transition to renewable energy. It has developed the next-generation battery technology, direct lithium extraction technology, and built Lithium-ion Transport and Separation( LiTAS). EnergyX already has agreements with four of the top ten lithium producers in the world. The company’s technology will improve lithium recovery rates from 30% to 90%. Teague Egan founded EnergyX in 2018. The current crowdfunding campaign has a maximum target of $75,000,000. The campaign proceeds will be used for demonstration and commercial plant deployment, debt obligations, working capital, and general corporate purposes.
Investment Overview
Raised: $75,514,053
Deal Terms
Company & Team
Company
- Year Founded
- 2018
- Industry
- Energy, Power, & Natural Resources
- Tech Sector
- Distribution Model
- B2B
- Margin
- High
- Capital Intensity
- High
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Synopsis
EnergyX revolutionizes the energy sector through advanced lithium extraction and battery technology. Founded in 2018 and based in Puerto Rico, EnergyX aims to address the growing demand for lithium, a critical component in rechargeable batteries used in electric vehicles (EVs) and other clean technologies. The company has developed proprietary technologies for direct lithium extraction (DLE) and energy storage solutions, positioning itself as a leader in the energy transition market.
The primary customers of EnergyX are major lithium producers and battery manufacturers. The company has already secured agreements with four of the top ten lithium producers globally, highlighting its strong market presence and the demand for its advanced solutions.
EnergyX addresses a significant problem in the lithium production industry: the inefficiency and high cost of traditional lithium extraction methods. Conventional methods, such as evaporation ponds, recover only about 30% of lithium and require extensive time and resources. This inefficiency not only drives up costs but also limits the availability of lithium, a vital resource for the rapidly growing EV market.
To tackle this issue, EnergyX has developed the LiTAS™ (Lithium-ion Transport and Separation) technology, a suite of DLE technologies that can recover up to 90% of lithium in just a few days. The LiTAS™ system utilizes proprietary membranes, solvents, and adsorbents to achieve high recovery rates, making it compatible with existing lithium production methods. By significantly reducing production time and costs, EnergyX offers a more efficient and cost-effective solution for lithium extraction.
Consider the scenario of owning an electric vehicle. The car's battery, a critical component, relies heavily on lithium. Traditional extraction methods contribute to higher battery costs, which are then passed on to consumers. EnergyX's technology aims to lower these costs by making lithium extraction more efficient, ultimately making EVs more affordable for everyday consumers. This not only benefits individual car owners but also supports the broader transition to cleaner energy sources by making renewable technologies more accessible.
Price
EnergyX is currently offering common equity in its latest funding round. The company's pre-money valuation stands at $475 million, with shares priced at $6.11 each. This valuation reflects the company's significant technological advancements and market potential within the lithium extraction and battery technology sectors.
Investing in common equity provides shareholders with ownership in the company and potential voting rights. However, common equity holders are typically last in line for any claims on the company's assets in the event of liquidation, which can be a disadvantage compared to preferred equity holders who have priority in such scenarios. On the other hand, common equity investments can offer significant upside potential if the company performs well and achieves a successful exit, such as an acquisition or initial public offering (IPO).
To provide a 10X return to investors, EnergyX would need to achieve a post-exit valuation of approximately $4.75 billion, not accounting for dilution. This ambitious target would require substantial market penetration, increased revenue, and continued technological advancements. Achieving such a valuation would likely necessitate widespread adoption of EnergyX's lithium extraction technologies and battery solutions, securing additional high-profile partnerships, and scaling operations effectively.
The company has already raised over $123 million through equity crowdfunding and strategic investments from major players like General Motors and Posco. Additionally, it has secured a commitment from General Emerging Markets, which plans to invest $450 million at the IPO if the company goes public. While EnergyX’s current valuation is steep for its stage, there is potential for a 10x return if the company can successfully scale its lithium production and achieve a strong public market debut. However, this high valuation may not sufficiently compensate for the significant risks that still exist at this stage.
Market
The market for lithium extraction and battery technology is experiencing robust growth, driven by several key trends and factors. The global demand for electric vehicle (EV) batteries surged by 40% in 2023 compared to 2022, with EVs accounting for the vast majority of that growth. This surge is fueled by the increasing adoption of EVs, particularly in the U.S. and Europe, although China remains the largest market. The primary power source for most hybrid and all-electric vehicles continues to be lithium-ion batteries, and this dominance is expected to persist in the foreseeable future.
Increased demand for critical metals, including lithium, cobalt, and nickel, is another significant market driver. In 2023, the demand for lithium rose by 30% compared to the previous year, with similar increases observed for cobalt and nickel. This rising demand for critical metals is expected to continue as the global shift towards renewable energy accelerates.
Another pivotal trend is the reduction in battery prices. In 2023, lithium prices dropped by 20% between January and March, returning to late 2022 levels. This price decline can be attributed to a 40% increase in supply and a slowdown in demand growth, notably in China. Lower battery prices could positively impact the growth of the company by making EVs and other lithium-dependent technologies more affordable for consumers.
EnergyX's products, particularly its LiTAS™ technology, can target a broad market within the lithium extraction and battery technology sectors. The technology is designed to work with all types of lithium brines and integrate with existing production methods, making it applicable to a wide range of lithium producers. This versatility allows EnergyX to address the entire market rather than just a niche segment, enhancing its growth potential.
The North American lithium-ion battery market, which EnergyX primarily targets, is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.8%, reaching a market size of $12.08 billion by 2026. This substantial market growth presents significant opportunities for EnergyX to expand its operations and increase revenue.
However, the company also faces challenges. The competitive landscape includes established players like Albemarle, Ganfeng Lithium, Lithium Americas, Allkem, and Livent, which have significant resources and market presence. Additionally, regulatory scrutiny and environmental considerations could impact EnergyX's operations, requiring adaptations to its technology and processes.
In conclusion, the trends driving the lithium extraction and battery technology market are largely favorable for EnergyX. The increasing demand for EVs, the dominance of lithium-ion batteries, and the growing need for critical metals all create a fertile environment for the company's growth. At the same time, EnergyX must navigate competition and regulatory challenges to capitalize on these opportunities fully.
Team
EnergyX's team is composed of experienced professionals with diverse backgrounds that align well with the company's goals of advancing lithium extraction and battery technology. The leadership team brings a wealth of expertise in energy, mining, technology, and business management, which is crucial for driving the company's growth and innovation.
Teague Egan, the founder and CEO of EnergyX, has been instrumental in leading the company's efforts to become a world leader in renewable energy. Egan is a climate activist and investor with experience in public sector energy assets and sustainable technologies. His entrepreneurial background includes founding multiple startups in entertainment, technology, and venture capital. Egan's vision and leadership are pivotal to EnergyX's strategic direction and overall success.
Juan Carlos Barrera, the President of Lithium, South America, brings over 32 years of experience in the mining industry, including 28 years at SQM, one of the largest lithium producers globally. Barrera's extensive knowledge of lithium operations and projects, from deposit exploration to production, is invaluable for EnergyX's lithium extraction initiatives in South America. His expertise ensures that the company can effectively manage its lithium mining concessions and optimize lithium production processes.
Dr. Amit Patwardhan, the Chief Technology Officer, joined EnergyX in 2020 and leads all technology-related initiatives. With 12 years of experience as Director of Global Research at Rio Tinto, a global Fortune 500 mining and metals company, Dr. Patwardhan co-invented lithium recovery processes and managed international teams across multiple continents. His technical expertise and leadership in research and development are critical for advancing EnergyX's proprietary technologies and maintaining its competitive edge.
Mayank Sharma, the Chief Financial Officer, joined EnergyX in 2023 and brings over 15 years of experience in investment banking, fintech, EV, batteries, and transformative technologies. Sharma's comprehensive background in finance and strategic planning is essential for managing the company's financial health, securing funding, and supporting its commercialization efforts. His expertise will be crucial as EnergyX embarks on scaling its operations and achieving profitability.
Milda Saenz, the Chief of Staff and Vice President of Growth Strategy, focuses on patent portfolio expansion and talent acquisition. With 15 years of experience in global technology transfer and business management, Saenz has overseen a portfolio of over 200 patents in battery, material science, and green energy technologies. Her background in intellectual property law and business management supports EnergyX's innovation and growth strategies.
Simonida Tilton, the Senior Vice President of Commercialization, serves as the Corporate Counsel for EnergyX, overseeing commercial transactions and corporate governance. Tilton's legal expertise and experience in advising clients on corporate structuring, private placements, and mergers and acquisitions are vital for navigating the complex regulatory landscape and ensuring the company's compliance and strategic growth.
The skills and experience of EnergyX's key team members align well with the company's goals of advancing lithium extraction and battery technology. Their combined expertise in energy, mining, technology, finance, intellectual property, and legal matters provides a strong foundation for achieving the company's objectives. However, as EnergyX continues to grow, it may need to address potential gaps in areas such as sales, and large-scale production management to fully capitalize on its market opportunities and achieve future milestones.
Differentiation
EnergyX differentiates itself in the lithium extraction and battery technology sectors through its proprietary LiTAS™ technology, which offers a suite of direct lithium extraction (DLE) solutions. This technology is designed to work with all types of lithium brines and integrate seamlessly with existing production methods, making it highly versatile and applicable to a broad market. In comparison, established competitors such as Albemarle and Ganfeng Lithium primarily rely on traditional extraction methods, which are less efficient and more time-consuming.
Albemarle, one of the largest lithium producers globally, has a significant market presence and extensive resources. The company focuses on traditional lithium extraction methods, which typically recover about 30% of lithium and require longer production times. In contrast, EnergyX's LiTAS™ technology can recover up to 90% of lithium in a matter of days, offering a more efficient and cost-effective solution. However, Albemarle's established market position and financial strength present a competitive challenge for EnergyX.
Ganfeng Lithium, another major player in the industry, also utilizes conventional extraction techniques. Ganfeng is known for its vertically integrated operations, covering everything from lithium mining to battery production. While Ganfeng's integrated approach provides certain advantages, EnergyX's technology aims to enhance lithium recovery rates and reduce production costs, potentially offering a competitive edge in terms of efficiency and scalability.
Another competitor, Lithium Americas, is involved in developing lithium projects in North and South America. While the company is focused on expanding its lithium production capabilities, it still relies on traditional extraction methods. EnergyX's differentiated approach, with its advanced DLE technology, positions it as a more efficient alternative to these conventional methods.
EnergyX's customer demographics primarily include large-scale lithium producers and battery manufacturers. These customers are typically involved in the production of lithium for use in electric vehicles, renewable energy storage, and other clean technologies. The company's technology appeals to customers looking to improve lithium recovery rates, reduce production times, and lower costs. EnergyX's agreements with four of the top ten lithium producers globally underscore its relevance and appeal to major industry players.
In terms of company size, EnergyX is relatively smaller compared to established competitors like Albemarle and Ganfeng Lithium. However, its extensive patent portfolio, with over 120 patents across 19 patent families, highlights its commitment to innovation and technological advancement. This intellectual property provides a solid foundation for EnergyX to compete effectively in the market.
EnergyX's pricing strategy is focused on offering cost-effective solutions that enhance the efficiency of lithium extraction processes. By reducing production times and increasing recovery rates, the company aims to provide significant cost savings to its customers. This pricing advantage, combined with the superior performance of its LiTAS™ technology, sets EnergyX apart from its competitors.
In summary, EnergyX differentiates itself through its advanced DLE technology, which offers higher efficiency and lower costs compared to traditional extraction methods. The company's focus on major lithium producers and battery manufacturers, along with its strong patent portfolio, positions it as a competitive player in the lithium extraction and battery technology sectors. However, it must navigate the challenges posed by larger, more established competitors to fully capitalize on its market opportunities.
Performance
EnergyX has demonstrated notable progress in its technological advancements and market positioning. However, the company's financial performance reflects the challenges typical of pre-profit, high-growth ventures. As of 2023, EnergyX reported annual revenue of $210k, without specifying from where this revenues came from.
EnergyX's traction is highlighted by several key milestones and strategic partnerships. The company has secured backing from notable investors such as General Motors and POSCO and already raised a total of $123.5 million without accounting for its current Reg A+ raise. It also has been selected for a $5 million grant by the U.S. Department of Energy to extract lithium from geothermal brines in California. These achievements validate the company's technological capabilities and market potential. Additionally, EnergyX has acquired significant lithium mining rights in Chile, totaling 107,500 acres, and announced Project Lonestar, which aims to establish the largest lithium production facility in the U.S.
The company's intellectual property portfolio, with over 120 patents across 19 patent families, further strengthens its competitive position. This extensive patent portfolio covers various aspects of EnergyX's lithium extraction and battery technologies, providing a solid foundation for future growth and commercialization efforts.
In summary, EnergyX's performance to date showcases its potential to make a significant impact in the lithium extraction and battery technology sectors. However, the company's financial metrics highlight the need for continued focus on scaling operations, managing capital efficiently, and converting technological advancements and strategic partnerships into substantial revenue growth.
Risk
Investing in EnergyX presents several specific risks that potential investors should consider. One of the primary concerns is the company's high revenue multiple, which currently stands at approximately 2,259.2x based on annual revenue of $210k. This multiple is exceptionally high and suggests that the market is valuing the company more on its future potential than its present financial performance. While this can indicate confidence in the company's technology and market opportunity, it also introduces a significant risk if the anticipated growth does not materialize.
Another key risk is the company's capital intensity. The nature of EnergyX's business, which involves advanced lithium extraction and battery technology, requires substantial capital investment for research, development, and scaling operations. This high capital intensity, combined with the fact that EnergyX is still in a pre-profit stage, means that the company will likely need additional funding rounds to sustain and grow its operations. This reliance on continuous capital influx can be risky, particularly if market conditions change or if the company struggles to attract future investments.
EnergyX also faces risks related to the long time required to scale production and distribution. The company's technology, while promising, needs to be integrated into existing lithium production operations and tested at scale. This process can be time-consuming and may face unforeseen technical or logistical challenges. The extended timeline to achieve full-scale commercialization could delay revenue generation and impact investor returns.
Additionally, EnergyX operates in a moderately competitive landscape with established players such as Albemarle, Ganfeng Lithium, Lithium Americas, Allkem, and Livent. These competitors have significant resources and market presence, which could pose challenges for EnergyX in terms of market penetration and competitive positioning. The company must continuously innovate and demonstrate the superiority of its technology to gain and maintain market share.
Finally, the energy sector, particularly lithium extraction and battery technology, is subject to regulatory scrutiny and environmental considerations. Any changes in regulations or environmental policies could impact EnergyX's operations, requiring modifications to its technology or processes, and potentially increasing costs or limiting market opportunities.
Bullish Outlook
EnergyX has strong growth potential in the booming lithium extraction and battery technology sectors. With global demand for electric vehicle (EV) batteries rising, the North American lithium-ion battery market alone is valued at $12.08 billion, growing at a 13.8% CAGR. This presents a lucrative opportunity for EnergyX’s advanced solutions.
The company’s proprietary LiTAS™ technology significantly outperforms traditional lithium extraction methods, recovering up to 90% of lithium in days, compared to the 30% recovery rate of conventional techniques. This efficiency gives EnergyX a compelling advantage, attracting major lithium producers and battery manufacturers.
EnergyX’s extensive patent portfolio, with over 120 patents across 19 families, strengthens its competitive position. The company has also secured 107,500 acres of lithium mining rights in Chile and launched Project Lonestar, aiming to build the largest lithium production facility in the U.S.
With $123.5 million in backing from investors such as General Motors and POSCO and a $5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy, EnergyX is well-positioned to advance its technology and scale its operations amid growing demand for critical metals like lithium. If it were to IPO, it would receive a $450 million investment from Global Emerging Markets.
Bearish Outlook
The bearish outlook for EnergyX stems from several key challenges. A major concern is the competitive landscape. Established players like Albemarle, Ganfeng Lithium, and Lithium Americas have significant resources, market presence, and vertically integrated operations. This makes it difficult for EnergyX to gain and sustain market share, as these competitors can leverage economies of scale and established customer relationships to capitalize on the growing lithium demand.
Technological and regulatory hurdles also pose risks. EnergyX’s advanced direct lithium extraction (DLE) technology, though promising, needs to be integrated into existing operations and tested at scale. This process could face unforeseen technical or logistical challenges, slowing progress. Additionally, regulatory scrutiny and environmental concerns in the energy sector could impact operations, requiring costly adaptations to EnergyX’s technology and processes.
The company's current valuation of $475 million is steep. To achieve a 10x return, it would need to reach a $4.75 billion valuation at exit, excluding dilution. While not impossible, EnergyX is in its early stages, and there is a significant risk that it may never reach this target.
Executive Summary
EnergyX, operating as Energy Exploration Technologies, Inc., is a company focused on revolutionizing lithium extraction and battery technology. Targeting major lithium producers and battery manufacturers, EnergyX aims to improve lithium recovery rates and reduce production times and costs through its proprietary LiTAS™ technology. The company's primary customers are large-scale lithium producers and battery manufacturers, with agreements already in place with several top global lithium producers.
In its current funding round, EnergyX is offering common equity at a pre-money valuation of $475 million, with shares priced at $6.11 each. To achieve a 10X return, EnergyX would need to reach a high and rare post-exit valuation of around $4.75 billion, emphasizing the need for substantial market penetration and revenue growth.
The market for lithium extraction and battery technology is driven by the increasing demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and the dominance of lithium-ion batteries. The North American lithium-ion battery market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.8%, reaching $12.08 billion by 2026. Key trends include rising demand for critical metals, lower battery prices, and expanding EV adoption, all of which create favorable conditions for EnergyX's growth.
EnergyX's strategic partnerships and a robust patent portfolio of over 120 patents across 19 families validate the company's technological capabilities and market potential.
EnergyX differentiates itself through its advanced direct lithium extraction (DLE) technology, which offers higher efficiency and lower costs compared to traditional methods used by competitors like Albemarle and Ganfeng Lithium.
Unique risks associated with investing in EnergyX include the high revenue multiple, capital intensity, long time required to scale production, and competition from established players. Additionally, regulatory scrutiny and environmental considerations could impact the company's operations.
On the bullish side, EnergyX benefits from favorable market trends, strategic partnerships, and a strong patent portfolio. The company's advanced technology and agreements with top lithium producers position it well for growth. On the bearish side, the high revenue multiple, capital requirements, and competitive landscape present significant challenges. The company's financial performance and reliance on continuous funding rounds are also areas of concern.
In conclusion, EnergyX presents a compelling investment opportunity with significant potential in the lithium extraction and battery technology sectors. However, the investment carries substantial risks related to financial performance, competition, and capital intensity. Investors should weigh these factors carefully when considering participation in EnergyX's funding round.
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Company Funding & Growth
Funding history
- Total Prior Capital Raised
- $124,500,000
- VC Backed?
- No
Close Date | Platform | Valuation | Total Raised | Security Type | Status | Reg Type |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
12/31/2024 | DealMaker Securities | $1,145,622,034 | $4,750 | Equity - Common | Active | RegCF |
10/04/2024 | DealMaker Securities | $475,000,000 | $75,514,053 | Equity - Common | Funded | RegA+ |
08/20/2021 | Netcapital | $306,492,600 | $3,039,768 | Equity - Common | Funded | RegCF |
05/09/2021 | Netcapital | $306,492,600 | $0 | Equity - Common | Funded | Test the Waters / RegCF |
02/05/2021 | Netcapital | $54,114,620 | $1,521,935 | Equity - Common | Funded | RegCF / RegD 506(c) |
Growth Charts
Revenue History
Note: Revenue data points reflect the latest of either the most recent fiscal year's financials, or updated revenues directly from the founder, at each raise's close date.
Valuation History
Price per Share History
Note: Share prices shown in earlier rounds may not be indicative of any stock splits.