It is one of several companies in North Carolina that are rapidly accelerating operations for extracting and processing lithium, which is essential to the flow of electricity within a battery, that can be sold to carmakers.
Although there has been progress in expanding North Carolina’s lithium industry, obstacles abound when it comes to permits and the pace of approvals that producers need to move forward with their plans.
Political backlash against electric vehicles, often fueled by Republicans including former President Donald J. Trump, also presents headwinds.
And the prices for lithium hydroxide have fallen sharply this year amid waning global demand, adding to the financial pressure the companies are facing to make their investments pay off.
Even if the permit process goes smoothly, however, the company does not expect the mine to be able to operate until 2027 or 2028.
Persons:
Mr, Norris, “, ” Albemarle, Donald J, Trump
Organizations:
of Defense, Department of Energy, Republicans
Locations:
China, North Carolina, Albemarle