Scientists discover impressive amount of lithium in a California lake: the value is estimated at $540 billion

A lake in California has turned out to be a real treasure for the global electric power industry. A study funded by the U.S. Department of Energy has revealed the impressive scale of lithium deposits under the Salton Sea.

Previously, experts estimated lithium reserves at four million tons, but recent studies have shown a much more ambitious figure of 18 million tons. This amount is capable of providing electric batteries for more than 382 million vehicles, which is more than the number of cars currently in use in the United States. UNILAD writes about this.

The economic potential of the deposit is also impressive. At current market prices (about $29,000 per metric ton), the value of lithium can reach an astronomical $540 billion.

Professor Michael McKibben of the University of California emphasized the strategic importance of this discovery. According to him, the deposit could make the United States completely independent of lithium imports, especially from China.

Climate observer Sammy Roth added an interesting context. He noted that companies have long been aware of the presence of lithium in the underground basin, but the new government report has determined the extent of the deposits with unprecedented precision.

The discovery has the potential to be a real breakthrough for the development of the electric vehicle industry and reduce dependence on imported energy.

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