We may, from time to time, be party to litigation and subject to claims incident to the ordinary course of business. As our growth continues, we may become party to an increasing number of litigation matters and claims. The outcome of litigation and claims cannot be predicted with certainty, and the resolution of any future matters could materially affect our future financial position, results of operations or cash flows. We evaluate such matters in accordance with ASC 450 - Contingencies, and record a liability when it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount can be reasonably estimated. If a loss is reasonably possible but not probable, or if the amount cannot be reasonably estimated, we disclose the nature of the contingency and an estimate of the possible loss or range of loss, if such an estimate can be made.

In  October 2021, we filed an action against Johnson Controls Fire Protections, LP (“Defendant”) relating to its involvement in the  November 2019 fire at our former TRIC facility (Aqua Metals, Inc., et. al v. Johnson Controls Fire Protections, LP, Second Judicial District of the State of Nevada CV21-01891). Our complaint alleged Defendant’s liability for a portion of the fire loss based on Defendant’s negligence, breach of contract and other causes of action in connection with Defendant’s failure to properly inspect, maintain and repair the fire suppression system in the TRIC facility. On  March 25, 2025, the Court dismissed our complaint in response to a motion for summary judgment filed by Defendant. On  May 12, 2025, Defendant filed a Memorandum for Costs seeking approximately $300,000 in litigation-related costs. On  May 29, 2025, Defendant filed a motion to recover its attorney’s fees and costs in the aggregate approximate amount of $3.5 million, including approximately $300,000 of costs (the same costs identified in Defendant’s Memorandum of Costs) and approximately $3.2 million of legal fees. While it is reasonably possible that a loss  may be incurred, we believe that we have a strong defense to Defendant’s claim for recovery of fees and costs, especially with regard to Defendant’s claim for legal fees, and we intend to vigorously defend against Defendant’s motion. However, should Defendant be successful in obtaining an award for all or a substantial portion of the requested amount, such outcome could have a material adverse effect on our liquidity and may require us to raise additional capital or liquidate assets to satisfy any such obligation. Based on the assessment of legal counsel, management concluded that a loss is not probable and, accordingly, no liability has been recorded.