Challenges and opportunities for lithium extraction from geothermal systems in Germany. Part 2: Potenzial and production scenarios in Germany

Abstract

This study provides background information to estimate the potential of future lithium production from geothermal fluids in Germany. Growing demand and the dependence on poorly diversified oversea sources points towards a high strategic importance of domestic resources. Furthermore, potentially lower CO2 emissions and reduced areal use during lithium production are additional aspects that need to be considered. Based on the technology comparison for direct lithium extraction from geothermal fluids and the current state of geothermal energy production in Germany and the French part of the Upper Rhine Graben, different scenarios for the extractable amount of lithium carbonate were considered. In the most optimistic scenario, taking into account all currently active wells, a maximum production of 7200 t/a of lithium carbonate equivalent is expected. This could cover 5–19% of the annual demand of the planned German battery cell production. Key parameters for the process design are the usable volume fraction of the geothermal fluid and the extraction efficiency. Uncertainties in the resource assessment regarding its size, and the sustainability of its management, are still considerable. To exploit the great potential of this technology, these key issues need to be addressed.