How much lithium does Germany need - and where does it come from? The Lithium Supply of Germany: Challenges and Solutions
In recent years, the topic of lithium has played a central role in the discussions about the transition to sustainable energy and electric mobility. Due to the increasing demand for lithium-ion batteries for electric cars as well as for the storage of renewable energies, the pressure on Germany to secure its supply of this crucial raw material is also growing. Experts estimate that by 2030, Germany will need to significantly increase its lithium demand, as the rising sales figures of electric vehicles require a reliable and continuous supply of lithium.
Current estimates indicate that Germany could require around 60,000 tons of lithium per year by 2030 to meet climate policy goals. This represents an increase of more than 600 percent compared to current consumption levels. It is emphasized that without efficient strategic planning and the development of technologies for lithium extraction, Germany could find itself in a precarious situation.
A key factor in obtaining lithium will be the future mine development in Europe. It is noted that European countries, including Germany, have already begun to tap into their own resources to avoid relying solely on imports.Areas in Portugal and Spain could play a significant role. Furthermore, the development of recycling technologies is also mentioned, which aim to recover lithium from used batteries.
Another aspect that experts discuss is the geopolitical dependency that Germany currently has on countries like Australia and Chile, which are among the leading lithium producers. It is suggested that diversifying supply routes and increasing focus on avoiding bottlenecks are crucial to successfully shape the energy and transport transition in Germany.
In summary, it becomes clear that lithium supply in Germany not only poses a technical challenge but also has a strategic dimension. It is of utmost importance that both politics and industry work together to develop the domestic lithium market while also promoting international partnerships. Only in this way can Germany achieve its climate goals and ensure a sustainable future for the next generations.
Author: Anita Faake, Wednesday, September 18, 2024
