Global demand for lithium could more than double by 2030 as electric vehicles (EVs), battery storage systems and digital infrastructure continue to expand.
That’s according to EnergyX, a specialist clean tech firm in the storage space. They have forecast demand for lithium in supporting efforts to reduce emissions and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy.
Lithium is a critical component in batteries used by EVs and large-scale energy storage systems, both of which play a central role in cutting reliance on fossil fuels.
Chief executive Teague Egan warned that current production levels may struggle to keep pace with future demand: “There’s definitely not enough lithium in production right now to power the needs of the future.”
Battery storage is emerging as one of the fastest-growing sources of demand. Energy storage systems help integrate renewable energy into electricity networks by storing surplus power generated from wind and solar projects, improving grid reliability and reducing emissions.
He added: “Energy storage is exploding. A 40% increase this year is massive. It’s like adding another million tons of lithium demand.”
The rapid growth of EVs is also driving demand. Global EV sales reached around 20 million vehicles in 2025, with manufacturers continuing to improve battery performance, charging speeds and vehicle range.
“But when electric vehicles became mainstream, the lithium demand just skyrocketed,” Egan told NewsNation. “Tesla obviously started that to a large degree, but China has just been dominating in terms of electric vehicles.”
EnergyX is investing heavily in new production technologies to help secure future supply. The company is expanding projects in Chile and developing direct lithium extraction facilities in Texas and Arkansas.
Unlike traditional evaporation methods, direct lithium extraction can recover lithium more quickly and efficiently.
Supporters say the technology could help increase production while supporting the clean energy systems needed to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions and meet climate targets.
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