Imperial County, CA. March 20, 2023 – Today, Controlled Thermal Resources (CTR) welcomed Governor Gavin Newsom and local leaders to its Hell’s Kitchen Lithium and Power development in Imperial County. 

The visit included a live press conference where the Governor, CTR’s CEO Rod Colwell, and regional representatives highlighted the progress in sustainable lithium production, education opportunities, and community engagement in Imperial County’s ‘Lithium Valley’.   

After a tour of the operations and optimization plant, Governor Newsom applauded CTR and community leaders for their efforts. 

“I couldn’t be more proud. Thank you CTR and others for leading the way.” Governor Newsom said.  “We see this as one of the greatest economic opportunities of our lifetime and we want California to dominate in this space, and we’re doing that.” 

“We’re honored to welcome Governor Newsom today and grateful for his leadership as Lithium Valley grows from a vision to a reality,” Mr. Colwell said. “What we are achieving with this immense geothermal power and lithium resource is unprecedented. Our shared vision to develop a sustainable battery materials campus at Hell's Kitchen is critical to electrifying the nation and creating thousands of clean, green jobs." 
 
“With the right support, California is set to become the world's leader in sustainable and highly efficient lithium production.  Making electric vehicles even cleaner is something we can all get behind and be proud of.” 
 
Attending local leaders included Torres Martinez Chairman Thomas Tortez, Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz, Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia, Imperial County Supervisor Ryan Kelley, Lithium Valley Commission Chair Silvia Paz, and San Diego State University President Adela De La Torre. 
 
Chairman Tortez spoke of the opportunity for inclusion and collaboration. “The inclusion of the Tribes is also a milestone. Thank you, Governor, for including the Tribes in your statements and in your travels out here. To invite the Tribes, and our input. It’s truly admirable.” Chairman Tortez said. 
 
While holding a sample of Hell's Kitchen Lithium Hydroxide, Governor Newsom in closing, highlighted Mr. Colwell’s commitment to developing the world’s first Clean Energy Campus.  “Rod, you are the personification of California values, Governor Newsom said. “I just want to applaud your efforts. This is a remarkable project, what you’re doing is next level, and that’s what this State is all about, and we want to partner with folks like you. So, thank you as well for your incredible example.” 
 
CTR anticipates the completion of its Stage 1 geothermal operation and the commencement of 25,000 metric tonnes of lithium hydroxide production in late 2024. At total production capacity, CTR expects to deliver 1,100MW of clean, renewable power and over 300,000 metric tons of lithium products annually, establishing Hell’s Kitchen as the world’s largest and most sustainable lithium and power development. 

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