Element3 Launches Domestic Lithium Extraction Operation
The company is extracting lithium from wastewater in the Permian Basin to boost U.S. supply.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Electric Vehicles
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In February 2026, the Department of Energy and Element3 successfully launched a new lithium extraction operation in the Permian Basin. This initiative leverages wastewater from oil production to source the vital battery mineral domestically.
Why it matters
Lithium is a critical resource for batteries and electronics, and increasing domestic production helps meet rising demand. This project marks a significant development in securing the United States supply chain for these essential materials.
Element3 utilizes seven licensed inventions from the Oak Ridge National Laboratory for its extraction process. The only other operational domestic site is the Silver Peak Lithium Mine in Nevada, which first opened in the 1960s.
The players
Element3
This company operates a lithium extraction facility that targets wastewater sourced from oil production in the Permian Basin.
Department of Energy
This federal agency is responsible for advancing energy policy and technology, including the support of domestic mineral extraction.
Oak Ridge National Laboratory
This U.S. Department of Energy laboratory focuses on scientific and technical research to solve complex energy challenges.
The details
Element3 extracts lithium from wastewater derived from oil production in the Permian Basin, which spans parts of Texas and New Mexico. The company relies on technology obtained through seven licenses for inventions developed at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory in 2024.
Timeline
1960s: The Silver Peak Lithium Mine in Nevada opened.
2024: Element3 obtained seven licenses for lithium extraction inventions from Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
February 2026: Element3 reached a milestone in its lithium extraction operations.
Roadmap
This operation signifies a shift toward unconventional mineral sourcing to reduce dependency on imported lithium compounds. By repurposing wastewater from existing oil infrastructure, the company positions itself to compete with traditional mining models for battery materials.
Increased domestic lithium production may stabilize the costs of raw materials needed for electric vehicle batteries. This shift could eventually support broader availability and lower price points for battery-reliant consumer electronics and vehicles.
The takeaway
Securing a domestic supply of lithium through innovative extraction methods is crucial for the future of battery-powered technology. As these operations scale, they may significantly change the landscape of mineral production in the United States.
Further reading
Learn more about the infrastructure supporting the transition to Electric Vehicles.
Source note: This article includes information reported by SlashGear.
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Should the United States prioritize expanding domestic mineral extraction to increase national economic independence?
