China, a key player in the global energy transition with its significant lithium reserves

Newly discovered mines in Tibet include a 2,800 kilometer belt of spodumene – a hard rock ore from which the metal can be extracted. This belt would contain the least 6.5 million tonnes of natural resources lithiumwhich can reach up to 30 million tonnes. The discovery also suggests that scientists may be able to find other reserves in geologically similar areas in the neighboring provinces of Qinghai, Sichuan and Xinjiang.

The recently discovered salt lakes on the Tibetan Plateau are expected to contain more than 14 million tonnes of lithium, the third largest such reserve in the world.

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Lithium, essential for the energy transition

Lithium is an essential component in the production of lithium-ion batteries, which power electric vehiclesrenewable energy storage systems and a wide range of electronic devices. As decarbonization accelerates globally, demand for lithium is expected to skyrocket. By securing vast reserves, the Chine strengthens its position as a key player in the global energy transition.

China is already the world’s largest producer of lithium-ion batteries and controls a significant portion of the global battery supply chain, including refining and processing capacity. Having larger national reserves reduces its dependence on imports from countries likeAustralia and the Chiliwhich strengthens its energy security and its resistance to geopolitical or market disruptions.

Lithium is increasingly considered as a “ strategic resource », like oil in the 20th century. By increasing its reserves, China is gaining influence over other countries that rely on lithium for their electric vehicle and green energy goals. This dominance could allow it to influence global prices, trading conditions and supply chain dependencies.

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Geopolitical significance

Having larger reserves can support the growth of China’s electric vehicle and battery manufacturing industries, which are key to achieving China’s carbon neutrality targets by 2060. This is in line with China’s ambition. China to dominate global electric vehicle markets, where it already has a significant competitive advantage.

As the second largest holder of lithium reserves, China can influence global markets not only as a processor, but also as a supplier of raw materials. This dual capacity increases its competitiveness compared to other lithium-rich countries and ensures its long-term dominance in the green energy economy.

The expansion of reserves comes at a time when other countries are also scrambling to obtain lithium resources to meet their energy transition needs. By taking this step, China places itself ahead of many competitors, such as UNITED STATES and Europe, which are still developing their own lithium extraction and processing capacities.

In summary, China’s growing lithium reserves amplify its strategic importance in the global clean energy transition, strengthen its economic and geopolitical influence, and solidify its role as a dominant force in shaping the future. green technologies.

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