Russia’s Plans for Large-Scale Lithium Production by 2030

Russia has announced plans to start large-scale lithium production by 2030. The country aims to produce 60,000 metric tonnes of lithium carbonate annually by that time. This move will help reduce Russia’s reliance on lithium imports and strengthen its position in the electric vehicle (EV) battery market.

Russia’s Lithium Ambitions Amid Global Demand

Lithium plays a crucial role in electric vehicle (EV) batteries, and demand for the metal is growing worldwide. As a result, Russia wants to increase its domestic lithium production. The country aims to become a major player in the global lithium supply chain by tapping into its significant lithium reserves. According to the US Geological Survey, Russia holds the 14th-largest lithium reserves, estimated at around 1 million tonnes in 2024.

Expansion of Lithium Mining in Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin supports accelerating lithium mining. The Russian Ministry of Natural Resources has already granted exploration permits for three key lithium deposits. These deposits are Kolmozerskoye, Polmostundrovskoye, and Tastygskoye.

Kolmozerskoye holds about 25% of Russia’s lithium reserves. Polar Lithium, a joint venture between Nornickel and Rosatom, manages this deposit. Arctic Lithium oversees Polmostundrovskoye, while Rostech subsidiary Elbrusmetall-Lithium handles Tastygskoye. Russia expects these sites to begin operations by 2030.

Current Production and Future Outlook

In 2023, Russia produced 27 tonnes of lithium. The country extracted this lithium as a byproduct from an emerald mine in the Ural Mountains. However, Russia’s production will rise significantly as it focuses on expanding lithium mining operations. These efforts are crucial for the country’s goal to meet the rising demand for EV batteries and clean energy technologies.

Russia’s lithium production strategy will help strengthen its domestic industries. The government’s investment in lithium resources reflects its commitment to reducing imports and positioning itself as a leader in the global EV market.