DERA has published the results of its updated raw material risk assessment for lithium in a study. According to the study, demand for the raw material could increase by a factor of four to eight by 2030, while at the same time a massive supply deficit could arise. Lithium plays a key role in e-mobility and the energy transition. Currently, the raw material needed to produce lithium-ion batteries is not substitutable. The study looks at the potentials of a possible self-sufficiency of Europe with lithium for the emerging battery cell production. In addition, aspects of sustainable extraction of the raw material are discussed.
