Tesla North America and Elon Musk announced the largest and most advanced lithium refinery in the United States is now operational in Corpus Christi, Texas. The plant converts spodumene ore into battery-grade lithium hydroxide, using a cleaner, cheaper process. This move aims to reduce U.S. dependence on China for refined lithium supply.

The new Tesla Lithium Refinery in North America is a milestone in achieving energy independence for the region. Tesla’s innovative technology allows for sustainable sourcing of spodumene and eliminates hazardous byproducts. The plant also produces a co-product named anhydrite used in concrete mixes, showcasing its commitment to sustainability.

The Trump Administration has invested in minority stakes in North American lithium producers and refiners to secure a domestic supply of critical minerals. This move aims to reduce reliance on foreign sources, particularly China, for key minerals used in battery technology and defense applications.

The Department of Energy (DOE) has provided a $2.26 billion loan to Lithium Americas Corp. for a major lithium project in Nevada. In return, the DOE received a 5% equity stake in Lithium Americas and a 5% economic stake in the joint venture with GM for the Thacker Pass lithium project.

Thacker Pass, expected to be the largest lithium supply project in the Western hemisphere, will significantly increase U.S.-sourced lithium volumes. The U.S. is prioritizing the development of a domestic supply chain for critical minerals to reduce dependency on foreign suppliers, particularly China.

MP Materials Corp has entered into a public-private partnership with the Department of Defense to accelerate the development of a U.S. rare earth magnet supply chain. This partnership highlights the U.S. government’s commitment to securing domestically-sourced critical minerals and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers, particularly China.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Tesla Fires Up America’s First Major Lithium Refinery