Lithium Supply Analysis Mo​del (LISA) ​

Decision Support Systems Tools

Model Description

This model was developed to assess the viability of US Lithium supply from geothermal brine and the potential supply chain impact of extracting Lithium from this source. This model links global demand and supply of lithium (Li) considering different electric vehicle (EV) demand scenarios.

We seek to answer the following questions:

  1. What is the economic potential of Li extraction from US geothermal sources?
  2. Is geothermal Li extraction technology a viable investment in the US?
  3. What is the potential supply chain impact of Li supply from US geothermal sources?

Prerequisites

A web browser and internet connection are required to run the interface of the model. To view the code, users need to have Stella Architect installed on their computers. For Stella licensing options, please click here.

Methodology

A detailed description of the analysis can be found in our article.

Two approaches were used, one static and the other dynamic. In the static approach, existing US geothermal plants with lithium concentration 20 ppm or higher were considered to theoretically estimate the potential reserves, annual lithium extraction quantity, and revenues. In the dynamic approach, a System Dynamics model was built for the period between 2010 and 2030, to investigate the impacts of lithium extraction from geothermal on supply and prices.

License

This model has been licensed under Apache License 2.0. To learn more about the terms and conditions for use, reproduction, and distribution, please read the LICENSE.txt file available in the Model files section.

Funding Source

This work is supported by the Critical Materials Institute, an Energy Innovation Hub funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Advanced Manufacturing Office under Grant AL-12-350-001.

This computer software was prepared by Battelle Energy Alliance, LLC, hereinafter the Contractor, under Contract No. AC07-05ID14517 with the United States (U. S.) Department of Energy (DOE).  The Government is granted for itself and others acting on its behalf a nonexclusive, paid-up, irrevocable worldwide license in this data to reproduce, prepare derivative works, and perform publicly and display publicly, by or on behalf of the Government. There is a provision for the possible extension of the term of this license.  Subsequent to that period or any extension granted, the Government is granted for itself and others acting on its behalf a nonexclusive, paid-up, irrevocable worldwide license in this data to reproduce, prepare derivative works, distribute copies to the public, perform publicly and display publicly, and to permit others to do so.  The specific term of the license can be identified by inquiry made to Contractor or DOE.  Neither the United States nor the United States Department of Energy, nor contractor makes any warranty, express or implied, or assumes any liability or responsibility for the use, accuracy, completeness, or usefulness or any information, apparatus, product, or process disclosed, or represents that its use would not infringe privately owned rights.

Contact Information

Ruby Nguyen

Contact Information

Ange-Lionel Toba​