The newly identified lithium reserve, estimated at up to 40 million metric tons, positions the U.S. as a potential leader in EV battery production.
A massive lithium deposit has been discovered in the McDermitt Caldera, a volcanic crater spanning southeastern Oregon and northern Nevada, potentially reshaping the global energy landscape. Estimated to contain up to 40 million metric tons of lithium, the site could be worth approximately $1.5 trillion, making it the largest known lithium reserve worldwide.
Lithium, often referred to as “white gold,” is essential for manufacturing batteries used in electric vehicles (EVs), renewable energy storage, and consumer electronics. The discovery comes at a time when the U.S. seeks to reduce dependence on foreign lithium sources, particularly from China, which currently dominates the market.
The McDermitt Caldera’s unique geological formation, resulting from a supervolcanic eruption 16.4 million years ago, has led to high concentrations of lithium-rich clay. Experts believe this find could significantly bolster the U.S. position in the EV industry and enhance national energy security.
However, environmental groups and Indigenous tribes have expressed concerns over potential ecological impacts and the preservation of sacred lands.