USGS study finds Appalachian region holds 2.3 million metric tons of lithium, enough for 328 years of US imports at 2025 consumption levels.
The deposit could power 130 million electric vehicles or 1.6 million grid‑scale batteries, enhancing US mineral security amid rising global demand.
Albemarle runs the sole US lithium plant; Lithium Americas and Ioneer are developing Nevada mines while China dominates processed supply.
USGS projects global lithium production capacity to double by 2029, highlighting rapid industry expansion.