Jackpot in the Mountains: The Lithium Surprise Hiding in Appalachia
Recent research by the U.S. Geological Survey has revealed that the Appalachian region contains significantly more lithium than previously estimated, with southern and northern Appalachia holding substantial reserves. The discovery could reduce U.S. reliance on foreign lithium imports and support domestic clean energy and technology industries. The Biden administration, through permitting reforms and investments, is promoting responsible domestic mining to bolster mineral security and create jobs.
- ▪The USGS estimates the southern Appalachians contain 1.43 million metric tons of lithium oxide, primarily in the Carolinas.
- ▪The northern Appalachians are estimated to hold 900,000 metric tons of lithium oxide, concentrated in Maine and New Hampshire.
- ▪The total lithium oxide in Appalachia could supply 328 years' worth of current U.S. lithium imports.
- ▪Lithium is used in batteries, pharmaceuticals, ceramics, and metal alloys, among other applications.
- ▪The lithium deposits are found in pegmatite rocks, which are large-grained and similar to granite.
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Jackpot in the Mountains: The Lithium Surprise Hiding in Appalachia By Ward Clark | 11:45 AM on April 29, 2026 The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of RedState.com. AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli Since President Trump resumed office in January of 2025, "Drill, baby, drill" has become the order of the day and something of a rallying cry for the petroleum industry. But its corollary is "Mine, baby, mine," and while perhaps not as high-profile a mission, it's still yielding benefits for the American economy and our energy independence. It's good for America.
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