Is lithium a critical energy resource in Chile?

The global and regional significance of lithium as a critical energy resource is examined. The evolution of Chile's lithium industry is analyzed, emphasizing two recent key policy initiatives: the 2015 National Lithium Commission report and the newly launched national lithium strategy. The salient features of these initiatives are outlined.

Will Chile overtake Australia in lithium production?

Chile was once the leading producer of lithium, later surpassed by Australia, and projections indicate that, without an increase in production, it could be overtaken in the coming years by China and Argentina .

Where is lithium mined in Chile?

Companies exploiting lithium in the Salar de Atacama To date, the only lithium mining operations in Chile are located in the Atacama salt flat, the so-called Salar de Atacama, in the north of Chile, near the town of San Pedro de Atacama. The story of how Corfo leased its properties to two companies, SQM and Albemarle, is a long but interesting one.

How much lithium is in the Salar de Atacama?

The lithium reserves in the Salar de Atacama, owned by Corfo, are globally significant. Of the estimated 28.3 million tons of lithium reserves, 7.5 million are located in this salt flat.

Why is Atacama a good place to buy lithium?

Furthermore, in terms of cost advantages, the production expenses for lithium in Atacama are the lowest worldwide due to favorable evaporation conditions resulting from the region's climate and the existing infrastructure facilitated by the presence of major copper mining operations nearby. 3.3. National Lithium Commission

Can co-located batteries help solar plants capture better power prices?

Co-located batteries, like Engie S.A.’s BESS Coya, will help solar plants capture better power prices by charging the batteries during solar hours when power prices are very low and dispatching energy during peak hours when prices are close to USD 100/MWh.