The recent discovery of a significant lithium reservoir in Kashmir has the potential to transform the region’s economy and energy sector, with ripple effects extending beyond national boundaries. Lithium, a vital component in the production of batteries used in electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems, is witnessing growing demand as the world transitions towards cleaner energy sources. With effective extraction and processing of the lithium reservoir in Kashmir, a substantial boost to the local and national economies could be on the horizon. Meanwhile, a recent announcement by the Geological Survey of India regarding a discovery in Rajasthan awaits further evaluation.

The timeline for reaping the benefits hinges upon several factors. The permitting and commissioning of a new lithium mine typically take 7-10 years, emphasizing the need for expeditious action by local authorities. Another critical consideration is the cost of lithium extraction, which remains unknown at this stage. Notably, the low extraction cost of lithium from Chile has contributed to its widespread usage. Presently, the majority of lithium processing, involving chemical steps to convert mined lithium salt into a usable battery form, is concentrated in China. India’s trajectory is poised to witness either becoming a net exporter of lithium salts to China or establishing a domestic supply chain encompassing in-house lithium processing and battery manufacturing.

The lithium deposits in Chile are particularly suitable for electric vehicles due to their high quality, purity, and chemical composition. Lithium brines extracted from Chile are processed to produce lithium carbonate and lithium hydroxide, the primary chemical compounds utilized in lithium-ion battery production, commonly employed in EVs and electronic devices.

Lithium batteries find widespread use in portable electronic devices owing to their high energy density and extended cycle life. The automotive industry has also witnessed a surge in the adoption of lithium batteries in recent years. Additionally, these batteries serve various purposes such as powering tools, backup systems, and buffering the intermittency of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power within the grid.

As a scientist specializing in renewable energy storage, my work revolved around the groundbreaking application of machine learning and lab experiments to predict lithium-ion battery life based on limited data from a few cycles. I also pioneered the development of a catalyst-free lithium-bromine flow battery, which holds the potential to serve as an ultimate solution for long-range EVs and grid-scale energy storage. Furthermore, I contributed to the creation of patents focused on reclaiming precious materials and eliminating unwanted substances in an electrochemical system that harnesses renewable energy to split water into hydrogen and oxygen.

Lithium, while not a source of renewable energy itself, plays a vital role in various renewable energy technologies. Its advantages include the ability to store substantial energy in a compact and lightweight package, making it ideal for portable devices and automobiles. Lithium batteries exhibit long life cycles, require minimal maintenance, and demand little to no upkeep. However, challenges persist, including the potential hazards associated with damaged or overheated lithium batteries, although software interventions mitigate such risks. Disposal and large-scale recycling of precious materials like nickel, copper, and cobalt pose difficulties, as the industry is currently fragmented and in its early stages.

Looking ahead, India’s future in clean energy appears promising. Driven by concerns over climate change and energy security, the country has set ambitious goals. As the third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases globally, after China and the US, India has committed to reducing its carbon emissions by 33-35% from 2005 levels by 2030, aligning with its commitment to the Paris Agreement. The recent lithium discoveries in Kashmir and Rajasthan provide a significant opportunity for India to advance its clean energy transition and contribute to a more