The international evaluation firm Sproule ERCE conducted a systematic assessment of lithium resources in the Altmark region using the internationally recognized CIM/NI43-101 standard. The results showed that reserves of 43 million mt LCE drew attention to this mining area in north-central Germany.
The EU Critical Raw Materials Act set clear targets for strategic raw materials such as lithium: by 2030, 10% of these raw materials will be mined within Europe, 40% will be processed within Europe, and no more than 65% shall come from any single third country. The existence of the Altmark lithium mine provides a solid foundation for the EU to achieve this goal.
Unlike traditional lithium mining methods, Neptune Energy employs an environmentally friendly technology known as "Direct Lithium Extraction." This method requires neither open-pit mining nor evaporation ponds, but instead extracts lithium element directly from underground brine.
Despite the bright prospects, there is still a long way to go from resource confirmation to large-scale production. Neptune Energy needs to further complete pilot testing, detailed environmental impact assessments, and a final investment decision. However, there is no doubt that the Altmark lithium mine, like a powerful engine, has already been set in motion.
When "Made in Germany" EVs are equipped with batteries made from environmentally friendly lithium "mined on German soil," the global NEV landscape may undergo a new round of reshaping.
