The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) identified a possible 900,000 metric ton deposit of lithium in the Northern Appalachians, with the largest concentrations in Maine and New Hampshire, which “could replace imports for a century or more.”
“USGS mineral science is the leading edge in the effort to restore America’s mineral independence by mapping our nation’s mineral resources. Everything else follows on the science: permitting reform and other policy changes to support investment in clean, responsible mining to 21st-century standards, and mining workforce training for new American jobs. The United States was the dominant world producer of lithium three decades ago, and this research highlights the abundant potential to reclaim our mineral independence,” said USGS Director Ned Mamula.
According to the report, the largest concentration of the newly discovered lithium deposit was in Maine and New Hampshire.
Lithium is critical for most aspects of modern technology, from military equipment to consumer goods. It is an essential component in batteries, but, according to the USGS, the U.S. relied on imports for more than half of its lithium needs in 2025.
Currently, Australia is the largest lithium producer, with China coming in second place. China also accounts for the majority of the global lithium refining capacity and production.
Across the entire Appalachian region, the USGS estimates that there are approximately 2.3 million tons of economically recoverable lithium. That amount could replace 328 years worth of U.S. lithium imports at 2025 levels.
Any attempt to actually extract lithium from Maine would likely come into conflict with the state’s exacting environmental standards and left-wing government.
0 Comments