VANCOUVER, BC, July 8, 2026 /CNW/ - EMP Metals Corp. (CSE: EMPS) (OTCQB: EMPPF) (FSE: 9ST) ("EMP Metals" or the "Company") is pleased to provide a corporate update highlighting significant milestones achieved during the first half of 2026 as the Company advances Project Aurora toward demonstration operations.
The first six months of 2026 have been transformational for EMP Metals as the Company advanced Project Aurora from construction into commissioning while strengthening its financial position and securing key government support. During the period, EMP completed major site infrastructure, received all required project permits, initiated commissioning activities, introduced first raw brine into the demonstration facility, and continued advancing toward integrated demonstration operations.
Construction and Site Development
Field development activities progressed significantly during the first half of the year, including successful workover programs on the Company's brackish water supply well and disposal well, establishing the infrastructure required to support continuous flow plant operations.
Construction of the demonstration facility also progressed substantially, with completion of the site's major infrastructure, including the process building, office trailers, site storage facilities, and installation of permanent piping connecting the demonstration facility directly to the wellhead.
The Company also received all major process equipment from Saltworks, marking completion of equipment deliveries for the demonstration plant and allowing construction to transition into commissioning.
Permitting and Regulatory Milestones
EMP successfully secured all key regulatory approvals and land access agreements required to advance Project Aurora. These approvals represent an important milestone in de-risking the project and ensured construction and commissioning activities progressed on schedule throughout the first half of the year.
Commissioning Progress
Commissioning activities continue to progress on schedule, with approximately 50% of the overall commissioning program now complete, building upon the factory commissioning completed at Saltworks. Saltworks has mobilized its commissioning and operations team to site, where work is underway across the integrated processing systems.
On July 1, 2026, a significant operational milestone was achieved with the successful introduction of the first raw brine into the pre-conditioning process system. The Company has now begun optimizing system performance and tuning the process using raw brine from the reservoir. The Company remains on track to complete commissioning activities in Q3 before transitioning into fully integrated demonstration operations and process optimization.