DB Schenker has received a contract to provide freight forwarding and logistics services for the Kemerton Lithium Expansion Project (KEP) in Western Australia.
Albemarle’s Kemerton plant is around 150 kilometres south of Perth, near the Port of Bunbury. The chemical manufacturer announced in May it would expand the plant from two to four processing trains.
DB Schenker said the contract marks the logistics company’s first foray into the battery metals mining industry globally.
“Lithium is a key ingredient in batteries to support global decarbonisation efforts, offering a long-lasting and efficient alternative to traditional fuel sources such as gasoline, and having applications in electric vehicles,” the company said.
“The work will be supported by the DB Schenker Project Control Tower office located in Perth, in conjunction with our global network of project offices that are specialised and accustomed to the unique logistics service requirements of the industry.”
Hatch Australia will the engineering contractor for the project, according to DB Schenker.
DB Schenker said it was proud to be chosen by Albemarle and Hatch to provide comprehensive international freight and logistics solution in support of the project.
DB Schenker vice president global projects and industry solutions APAC Frank Vogel welcomed the announcement.
“We have a proven track record of working safely and efficiently, even on the most remote sites and mega projects in the world,” he said.
DB Schenker expects the contract to provide new local employment development and opportunities for the company in Western Australia.
The WA government has previously said the expansion, once complete, would make the Kemerton plant the “biggest and most advanced” lithium hydroxide processing facility outside of China.
