The Kabul Times, Afghanistan Trustable News

Is there lithium in Afghanistan?

A 2017/18 report from the US Geological Survey notes Afghanistan has deposits of spodumene, a lithium-bearing mineral, but does not provide tonnage estimates, while the 2019 Afghan report makes no mention of lithium at all.

Could lithium be the backbone of Afghanistan's economy?

The economic impact of this mining discovery is simply enormous: the total reserves represent about 1,000 billion. The two main sources of lithium are hard rock sources in pegmatites and in solution within continental brines, both of which are present in Afghanistan. This might become the backbone of the Afghan economy.

Is lithium the 'white gold' of EV battery manufacturing?

Lithium, the “white gold” of EV battery manufacturing - favoured for being lightweight and robust in energy storage - is said to be plentiful in Afghanistan. But now the West is no longer in charge, where will it come from?

How much is Afghanistan's mineral deposit worth?

In 2010, US military officials and geologists revealed the extent of Afghanistan's mineral deposits, valued at between $1 trillion and $3 trillion. But since the recapture of Kabul by the Taliban, it's unlikely the West will be invited to trade talks anytime soon.

Where is lithium found?

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is another primary source for Lithium but as yet there are no known commercially viable Lithium mines there. The IEA estimates it takes 16 years from the discovery of a mineral for a mine to begin production.

What is energy storage in Spain?

It targets large-scale energy storage projects in Spain. It focuses on technologies like standalone battery energy storage systems (BESS), pumped hydro energy storage (PHES), and thermal energy storage. The program supports hybrid projects, which combine storage with renewable energy, such as solar or wind farms.

How will Spain increase its energy storage capacity?

Spain has launched an ambitious €700 million (around $796 million) program to increase its energy storage capacity. This plan will add 2.5 to 3.5 gigawatts (GW) of storage. It includes pumped hydro, thermal energy storage, and battery systems.

Why should Spain invest in energy storage?

Investing in energy storage helps Spain meet its climate goals. This includes achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Storing renewable energy instead of wasting it helps the country rely less on fossil fuels. This also cuts down greenhouse gas emissions. Pumped hydro, thermal storage, and battery systems are effective technologies.

What are the barriers to power storage in Spain?

The primary obstacle for power storage in Spain is the absence of specific regulation for both stand-alone and hybrid facilities. Although the Spanish legislator has taken steps, such as amending existing regulations (like environmental ones) and introducing basic rules for flexible demand access permits, key regulatory gaps remain.

What is the European Commission's new energy storage support scheme?

The European Commission approved a new support scheme. It targets large-scale energy storage projects in Spain. It focuses on technologies like standalone battery energy storage systems (BESS), pumped hydro energy storage (PHES), and thermal energy storage.

Will Spain strengthen its electricity system after a power outage?

The Spanish government has approved legislation to strengthen its electricity system following the major power outage the country experienced in April.