Gov. Newsom Visits Lithium Plant in Imperial Valley as State Moves to Reduce Fossil Fuel Dependence

(KMJ) – Governor Gavin Newsom along the California border Monday, visiting what’s called “Lithium Valley.”

The governor was getting an update on the progress being made toward lithium production.

Newsom, touring a geothermal plant, at the Salton Sea called Controlled Thermal Resources.

CEO Rod Colwell gave an update about the plant, and jobs that would be coming as the state moves to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

As Gov. Newsom is pushing California to transition more toward electric cars, lithium is essential for battery production in electric vehicles.

Currently, the U.S. only produces about 1% of the world’s lithium supply.

Governor Newsom wants to change that by increasing production in Imperial Valley, which contains some of the largest lithium deposits in the world.

California is building a hub for global innovation while ensuring the development of lithium resources benefits Imperial Valley communities. The future happens here first – and Lithium Valley is fast-tracking the world’s clean energy future.

Listen to the report by KMJ’s Liz Kern.