Most planned U.S. lithium mines are located in regions already struggling with drought, according to a new analysis. The overlap threatens to hamper domestic production of a metal critical for batteries and renewable energy storage.
The findings highlight a paradox at the heart of the green energy transition. While the U.S. seeks to reduce reliance on foreign supply chains, the water-intensive nature of lithium extraction may undercut those ambitions. Nevada, Arizona, and California — states rich in lithium deposits — are also among the most water-stressed.
Without adequate water resources, many projects may face delays or cancellation. The analysis suggests that water shortages could deepen America's dependence on imports from countries like Chile and Australia, where lithium mining faces fewer water constraints.
The implications extend beyond the mining sector. Electric vehicle manufacturers and battery producers that rely on a steady lithium supply could see costs rise or timelines slip. Policymakers may need to weigh water conservation against energy security goals.
Critics argue the study oversimplifies trade-offs, noting that emerging extraction technologies could reduce water use. However, those methods remain unproven at commercial scale.