Scientists discover $1,500,000,000,000 worth of white gold in Oregon

[Rimmer]

Scientists discover $1,500,000,000,000 worth of white gold in Oregon that could transform the US car industry

The McDermitt Caldera

 

By  Rebekah Jordan

A $1.5 trillion lithium deposit has been uncovered in Oregon.

The team of scientists made the discovery in a volcanic hotspot along the Oregon-Nevada border and it could be one of the largest lithium deposits ever identified in the United States. Uncovered back in 2023, the treasure trove has just recently been valued at a whopping $1.5 trillion, and it could prove totally revolutionary for America's electric vehicle industry. Although this is brilliant news for the industry, the local community have voice concerns over the discovery.

Why are lithium deposits so valuable?

Lithium is an essential component in electric vehicle (EV) batteries, making it one of the most sought-after minerals globally.

With EV production and a drive for clean energy on the rise, the US is eager to reduce its reliance on foreign lithium especially as global conflict threatens key resource supply lines. According to a 2023 study published in Minerals, the McDermitt Caldera could hold between 20 and 40 million metric tonnes of lithium. Expert analysts state that if efficient extraction methods prove efficient, the US could position itself as a leading global supplier of the valuable metal. In other words, if all goes well, a discovery like this could revolutionise the future of the US battery industry.

Full story:

https://www.uniladtech.com/science/scientists-discover-mcdermitt-caldera-oregon-lithium-deposit-value-787354-20250514