China has uncovered a groundbreaking lithium ore deposit totaling 490 million tonnes in Hunan Province, marking a pivotal development for its renewable energy and technology sectors. The discovery, announced by Hunan's natural resources department, positions the region as a critical player in the global race for sustainable resources.
Located in Linwu County's Jijiaoshan mining area, the altered granite-type deposit contains approximately 1.31 million tonnes of lithium oxide alongside rubidium, tungsten, and tin. Researchers from the Mineral Resources Survey Institute of Hunan Province attributed the find to advanced exploration technologies and years of geological analysis in challenging terrain.
"This reserve will accelerate Chenzhou's transformation into a hub for new-energy industries," said Xu Yiming, a professor at the institute. Lithium's role in electric vehicle batteries, energy storage systems, and consumer electronics makes it indispensable for global decarbonization efforts.
China's lithium reserves now account for 16.5% of the world's total, according to a January report by the China Geological Survey, securing its position as the second-largest holder globally. The discovery comes as nations intensify efforts to secure critical minerals for clean energy transitions.
