Tucked beneath Oklahoma’s Wichita Mountains, a startup’s warehouse holds the only U.S. machine refining nickel—a critical energy transition metal China dominates. Westwin Elements’ pilot facility epitomizes Oklahoma’s push to become America’s hub for processing minerals vital for EVs, defense, and renewables—a sector the U.S. largely abandoned decades ago.
Governor Kevin Stitt (R) told Reuters he’s “strategically targeting these new industries,” leveraging investor interest: “There’s money flying into critical minerals—it might as well be in Oklahoma.” The state now hosts:
- America’s sole nickel refinery (Westwin)
- Its largest lithium refinery (Stardust Power)
- Two battery recyclers (Green Li-ion, Blue Whale Materials)
- A rare earth magnet plant (USA Rare Earth)
- Multiple e-waste facilities
They join Umicore’s germanium plant and the first new U.S. aluminum smelter since 1980—surpassing any state’s project pipeline.
The Oklahoma Advantage
Despite no major mineral deposits and a K-12 system ranked 48th nationally, companies cite unique strengths:
- Central Logistics: Rail/highways linking all three U.S. coasts + Mississippi River port access.
- Energy-Skilled Workforce: Oil/gas expertise transferable to refining.
- Business Climate: “One phone call” regulation (per state officials) and tax rebates.
MLB Industrial CEO Nathan Leech moved his family here after choosing Oklahoma for expansion: “Other states wanted established players—they embraced our growth story.”
Geopolitical Catalyst
China’s rare earth export restrictions (April 2023) ignited urgency. USA Rare Earth’s magnet plant—opening early 2025—will make enough magnets yearly for 400,000 EVs. CEO Josh Ballard signed a deal with Moog for AI data centers: “China quit selling; we’re stepping in.” Westwin founder KaLeigh Long, who named her firm declaring “The West will win,” sources nickel from Turkish mines and recycled U.S. batteries. Her refinery could supply 10% of U.S. nickel by 2030, with Pentagon drone battery talks underway. “Miners are ranchers; refiners are the packers capturing value,” said Long, a former cattle herder.
Green Power & Timing
Stardust Power’s lithium refinery will use Oklahoma’s wind energy (50% of grid) to extract lithium from brines—a commercial first. Despite low lithium prices, CEO Roshan Pujari pushes forward: “Downturns are the best time to build. Why wait for peak demand with nothing to sell?”
Hurdles
Setbacks include Canoo’s bankruptcy after a $1M state grant and losing Panasonic’s battery plant to Kansas. Schools’ four-day weeks worry talent recruiters. Google funded local schools to attract data center staff.
Stitt remains bullish: “We’re swinging for the fences.” He backs school vouchers to “make all boats rise” and lobbies Washington to mandate U.S.-processed minerals in federal contracts.
The Fight Ahead
Westwin battles to save a federal tax credit opposed by Republicans. Rare earth firms eye a 30% magnet tax credit sponsored by Oklahoma Senator Mullin. As recycler Green Li-ion notes: “This state has chemical engineers.” Oklahoma bets its logistics, energy grit, and hustle can defy the odds.