The lithium industry in North America is experiencing a notable shift, with significant efforts being undertaken to close the lithium conversion gap. As the demand for electric vehicles (EVs) escalates, so too does the need for this valuable metal, as lithium is a vital ingredient in the production of EV batteries.
Currently, a majority of the lithium extraction takes place in South America and Australia, but North America, particularly the United States, is making strategic moves to make itself a competitive player in the global lithium market.
Lithium Nevada, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lithium Americas, is in the lead when it comes to closing the lithium conversion gap in North America. The company’s Thacker Pass deposit in Humboldt County, Nevada, is expected to become a significant contributor to the domestic production of lithium. This project, once operational, would not only contribute to the supply of lithium but also stimulate economic growth and job creation on a local level.
Thacker Pass deposit holds an estimated 5.3 million tonnes of Lithium Carbonate Equivalent (LCE), making it the largest known lithium resource in the United States. The company endeavors to leverage this deposit to produce 60,000 tonnes per annum (tpa) of lithium carbonate, which could further be used for EV battery production.
In addition to the Thacker Pass project, Lithium Nevada also intends to invest in the construction of a lithium conversion facility. This is to ensure that the company not only extracts the lithium but also turns it into battery-grade lithium products within North America. By bringing the entire lithium production process within the continent, the company would strengthen the EV manufacturing supply chain and reduce dependencies on foreign sources.
Meanwhile, E3 Metals, another North American lithium player located in Alberta, Canada, is working on extracting lithium from oilfield brines. Their Ion-Exchange Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) technology offers an innovative, eco-friendly solution for lithium mining.
Unlike traditional mining methods, DLE is designed to efficiently extract lithium and purify it to produce high-quality lithium products. Additionally, E3 Metals’ ground-breaking technology has shown the potential to significantly reduce the environmental impact associated with lithium mining – a major concern for stakeholders worldwide.
The efforts of companies like Lithium Nevada and E3 Metals epitomize the growing momentum to close the lithium conversion gap in North America. Governmental entities are also lending their support, with the U.S. Department of Energy investing $3 million in research and development for lithium extraction and conversion processes.
In conclusion, the lithium conversion gap is gradually decreasing in North America, thanks to the concerted efforts of private and public stakeholders. These decisive steps ensure that North America doesn’t just remain a consumer of lithium, but takes control of its supply chain by becoming a top player in lithium extraction and conversion. While challenges undoubtedly exist, the future seems promising for lithium production in North America.
As the world tilts towards cleaner and more efficient energy sources, the onus is on North America and other regions to successfully tap into their native lithium resources. Doing so would not only secure their place in the burgeoning EV industry but also contribute significantly towards a greener, more sustainable planet.