The Lithium Rush: Can We Meet Tomorrow’s Lithium Demand?
Can We Meet Tomorrow’s Lithium Demand?
Lithium is one of the world’s most critical natural resources and is central to our push toward sustainable energy.
In this graphic, sponsored by EnergyX, we ask that with over 350 million EVs expected to be sold globally by 2030, can we meet tomorrow’s lithium demand?
Addressing Tomorrow’s Lithium Problem
The lithium that powers EV batteries is refined from compounds found in multicolored pools of salt-brine or hard rock, and quantities are measured in terms of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE).
So, to power the vast quantity of EVs being produced worldwide, a consistent and reliable supply of lithium is required. However, with forecasted annual demand growth of up to 20% by 2030, the current supply of lithium will not be sufficient to meet the demand, and nearly double the amount will be required.
| Year | Global LCE Supply (tons) | Global LCE Demand (tons) |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 750,000 | 720,000 |
| 2030 | 1,640,000 | 3,060,000 |
Extracting a Solution
One of the main reasons why lithium demand is set to outstrip supply so aggressively is that conventional methods of extracting lithium are slow, outdated, and often cause environmental harm. However, a new way of lithium extraction, called direct lithium extraction (DLE), could resolve the supply problem.
DLE boasts a lithium recovery rate of 90%, surpassing conventional processes by 300%. This process also allows for lithium extraction from previously untapped sources, including California and the Smackover region in Arkansas.
Additionally, DLE is exceptionally efficient, taking only two days to process a lithium deposit, a process which would typically take 18 months. This process is also more environmentally friendly as producing one ton of lithium conventionally requires over 2.2 million liters of fresh water, whereas DLE requires minimal quantities.
A Path Forward
Without action, by 2030, there won’t be enough lithium to meet the combined demands of the clean energy transition and the UN’s sustainable development goals.
However, advances in DLE by pioneering companies like EnergyX could help meet the demand and ensure the transition to a more sustainable future.
Ready to join the energy transition? Learn more about EnergyX here.
-
Energy3 days agoRanked: Electric Vehicle Sales by Model in 2023
Today, electric vehicle sales make up 18% of global vehicle sales. Here are the leading models by sales as of August 2023.
-
Energy6 days agoVisualizing the Top Energy Priorities of Major Countries
This infographic lists the top energy priorities in 28 countries, based on an Ipsos survey involving 24,000 people.
-
Automotive2 weeks agoVisualized: EV Market Share in the U.S.
Although sales have been climbing, EV market share in the U.S. remains low as a percentage of all vehicles registered on the road.
-
Energy4 weeks agoProgress on 2030 Renewable Energy Targets by Country
In this graphic, we visualize whether major electricity-consuming countries are on track to meet their 2030 renewable energy targets.
-
Energy1 month agoMapped: The Top Middle East Exports by Country
It’s more than just oil. This map of Middle East exports shows the top global product of each country by value.
-
Energy1 month agoMapped: Gas Prices in Every U.S. State
Gas prices fluctuate from state to state due to factors such as local taxes, environmental regulations, and the proximity of refineries.
