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Scientists have confirmed one of the largest lithium deposits ever found in the United States, an estimated 18 million tons lying beneath California’s Salton Sea, valued at roughly $540 billion.Often called “white gold,” lithium is the essential metal for electric vehicle batteries, smartphones, and renewable energy storage. This massive find could dramatically reduce America’s heavy reliance on imported lithium and strengthen domestic supply chains for the clean energy transition.What makes this discovery especially promising is the extraction method being developed: geothermal brine extraction. Instead of traditional open-pit mining, lithium would be pulled from the hot, salty water already brought to the surface by existing geothermal power plants. This approach is considered far more environmentally friendly, using significantly less water and causing minimal surface disruption compared to conventional mining.The Salton Sea region, long known for its geothermal potential, is now emerging as a potential powerhouse for sustainable energy. Experts believe the resource could help meet surging global demand for lithium while creating jobs and supporting the growth of electric vehicles and battery technology.This isn’t just an economic win — it’s a strategic one. A secure domestic supply of lithium could accelerate America’s shift away from fossil fuels and give the U.S. greater independence in the global clean energy race.The Salton Sea lithium deposit stands as a powerful example of how innovation and natural resources can come together to shape our energy future.