GM Announces Investment In Lithium Production Plant At Salton Sea

SALTON SEA, CA — General Motors is collaborating with Controlled Thermal Resources of Imperial to develop a lithium plant at the Salton Sea, it was announced last week.

GM will be the first company to make "a multi-million dollar investment" in CTR's Hell's Kitchen project and will have first rights on lithium produced there with an option for a multi-year relationship, according to the Detroit-based auto manufacturer.

The exact dollar amount of the deal was not provided.

GM said lithium is a crucial metal in batteries, so it's paramount in the company's plans to increase electric vehicle production.

"Lithium is critical to battery production today and will only become more important as consumer adoption of EVs increases, and we accelerate towards our all-electric future," said Doug Parks, GM executive vice president. "By securing and localizing the lithium supply chain in the U.S., we're helping ensure our ability to make powerful, affordable, high mileage EVs while also helping to mitigate environmental impact and bring more low-cost lithium to the market as a whole. GM looks forward to working with CTR, in addition to state and local leaders, in achieving these goals."

Most lithium used in lithium-ion batteries is currently mined and processed outside of the U.S., according to GM.

Rep. Raul Ruiz, M.D., whose 36th Congressional District includes the Coachella Valley, released a statement following news of the GM deal.

"General Motors’ investment in renewable energy development at the Salton Sea presents an incredible opportunity for clean energy job creation in our desert," Ruiz said. "With the lithium deposit at the Sea, our region can become a global leader in manufacturing for the batteries that will power our clean-energy future. I have long advocated for the renewable energy potential at the Sea, and I look forward to working with GM to develop a supply chain that prioritizes sustainability, public and environmental health, and local job growth."

The first stage of the Hell's Kitchen project is expected to begin yielding lithium in 2024, according to GM.

Some of the richest people in the world have been investing in lithium production. CTR and technology partner Lilac Solutions joined forces last year for the Hell's Kitchen project. Lilac’s technology received $20 million funding, led by Bill Gates’ Breakthrough Energy Ventures, and a $1 billion fund backed by global business leaders including Jeff Bezos, Jack Ma and Michael Bloomberg.