Officials 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 would position California as the world's center for battery production, while seeks to become a clean energy leader.
So the governor Gavin Newsom visited the Imperial Valley on Monday to see the progress being made in transforming the Salton Sea region into a global center for battery production.
And it is that, the Imperial Valley of California contains some of the largest lithium deposits in the world, specifically underground near the Salton Sea, a region also known as the Lithium Valley.
Experts believe Lithium Valley could provide enough lithium to meet all of future US demand and more than a third of global demand, fueling the transition to zero-emission vehicles, something the state has been focusing on.
During his visit, the Governor toured Imperial Controlled Thermal Resources 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 an eye to improving wetland habitat, public health and environmental conditions in the area.
“We are building a center for global innovation while making sure this transformation benefits communities right here in Imperial Valley. California is on the verge of becoming the world's largest source of batteries, and it couldn't come at a more crucial time in our efforts to move away from fossil fuels. The future happens here first, and Lithium Valley is accelerating the world's clean energy future."
In her opportunity, Silvia Paz, president of the Lithium Valley Commission, highlighted that there is unlimited potential within the Salton Sea region, both in terms of its role as a leading source of battery components for the production of clean energy, as well as in the local benefits in terms of employment and development.
"Lithium Valley is poised to be a key player as California leads a global transformation to greener technology," he said.
In 2022, Newsom signed legislation allocating $5 million to Imperial County to support Lithium Valley and created the Lithium Mining Tax Act, which ensures Imperial Valley communities benefit from lithium mining. element and are an important part of the growing industry.
The Blue Ribbon Commission on Lithium Extraction in California submitted its report of findings and recommendations to the state Legislature last December, recommending accelerating transmission planning, improving permitting, and securing funding for infrastructure investments and energy incentives. economic development to support industry growth and job training.
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