Germany Launches Project Lionheart to Secure Lithium Supply

Germany's Project Lionheart aims to reduce reliance on Chinese lithium supplies, crucial for electric vehicle batteries, amidst rising tensions with Beijing and the backdrop of the Ukraine conflict. This initiative, led by Vulcan Energy at a facility in Frankfurt, converts brinewater into battery-grade lithium to enhance domestic production capabilities. Meanwhile, in the U.S., SLB has introduced a groundbreaking lithium extraction technology in Nevada that dramatically increases efficiency and sustainability, recovering 96% of lithium from brine and significantly reducing land and water use. QuantumScape and Lilac Solutions also contribute to this evolving lithium economy by developing technologies for better battery performance and sustainability. The growing demand for lithium, projected to increase 18-fold by 2030, underscores the importance of these advancements in both Europe and the U.S. as they seek energy independence and environmental responsibility.