Authorities have said that Lithium Valley is on track to become one of the world's largest sources of lithium, an essential material for electric vehicle batteries, which will position California as the world center for battery production, while seeking to become a leader in clean energy.
As the governor Gavin Newsom visit the Imperial Valley on Monday to see the progress being made in transforming the Salton Sea region into a global hub for battery production.
And California's Imperial Valley contains some of the largest lithium deposits in the world, specifically underground near the Salton Sea, a region also known as Lithium Valley.
Experts believe Lithium Valley could provide enough lithium to meet all future U.S. demand and more than a third of global demand, powering the transition to zero-emission vehicles the state has been focusing on.
During his visit, the Governor toured Controlled Thermal Resources in Imperial for a demonstration of safe lithium extraction and battery production. He also met with local elected officials, community groups and other stakeholders to discuss ways the state is prioritizing the needs of local Imperial Valley communities.
In the morning, Newsom visited a project being implemented as part of the Salton Sea Management Program with a view to improving wetland habitat, public health, and the conservation of marine ecosystems.