Can the Democratic Republic of the Congo produce lithium-ion battery cathode precursor materials?

London and Kinshasa, November 24, 2021 – The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) can leverage its abundant cobalt resources and hydroelectric power to become a low-cost and low-emissions producer of lithium-ion battery cathode precursor materials.

Is Rio Tinto interested in lithium?

Rio Tinto Group has engaged in discussions with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) about developing one of the world’s largest hard rock lithium deposits, signaling the miner’s growing interest in battery metals.

Which country has the world's largest lithium deposits?

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is home to one of the world’s largest lithium deposits, a resource that is increasingly vital for the global shift to renewable energy. In the town of Manono, located in the Tanganyika province in the southeast of the country, an estimated 6.6 million tonnes of lithium lie beneath the soil.

Does Zijin Mining have a lithium project in Congo?

Zijin Mining plans lithium production in Congo by 2026, leveraging one of the world’s largest lithium deposits. Legal disputes between AVZ Minerals and the Congolese government complicate development of the Manono lithium project.

Why does the DRC rely on hydroelectric power plants?

This is due to the DRC’s proximity to cathode raw materials and heavy reliance on hydroelectric power plants.

How much cobalt does the DRC produce?

“The DRC produces about 70 per cent of global cobalt but captures just 3 percent of the battery and electric vehicle value chain.