Lithium supply

Over the past decade, global demand for lithium has doubled. As a result of the transition to electric vehicles, the global consumption of this metal is expected to increase 42-fold by 2040, compared to 2020, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA).

Lithium production is increasing significantly globally, yet market pressure for lithium remains high. In addition, a number of phenomena need to be taken into account:

• Although batteries are beginning to be produced in Europe, the continent is still dependent on imports (79% of batteries come from China);
• The need for lithium is growing exponentially and, by 2030, supply may not be able to meet global demand;
• Lithium production is highly concentrated in three non-European countries: Australia, Chile and China.

This situation poses risks for manufacturers, who are in a situation of dependence. Environmental issues also need to be taken into account in order to implement more respectful practices when opening new mines.

Exploration projects in France

In France, exploration of lithium resources has begun. As of 1 January 2024, no less than seven Exclusive Research Permits for mines including lithium have been issued:

The exclusive research permit known as the "Beauvoir Permit" (EMILI project);

Three exclusive research permits for the Bas-Rhin area (“Outre-Forêt Lithium Permit”, “Illkirch Lithium Permit” and “les sources alcalines”);

Three exclusive research permits for Haute-Vienne (“Douillac”, “Fayat” and “Pierrepinet”).

Eight other exclusive research permits involving lithium are currently under review. Note also that the extraction techniques are not the same for these different exclusive research permits.