Germany Uncovers 43 Million-Ton Lithium Deposit Worth Over $1 Trillion
UK-based Neptune Energy has announced the discovery of a massive 43-million-ton lithium deposit beneath Saxony, Germany a find valued at more than $1 trillion.
The discovery is being described as one of the largest known lithium reserves in the world, positioning Germany and by extension, Europe as a potential global powerhouse in the supply of a mineral that is critical to the future of clean energy and electric mobility.
According to preliminary assessments, the lithium is located deep beneath geothermal brine deposits in the region. Experts say the resource could supply enough lithium to power hundreds of millions of electric vehicles (EVs), helping Europe reduce its reliance on imports from Asia and South America.
“This discovery is a game-changer, not just for Germany but for Europe’s entire energy future,” said Edward Grant, Neptune Energy’s Director of Global Exploration. “Our findings suggest that Saxony holds one of the richest lithium deposits ever identified, capable of supporting the continent’s battery production for decades.”
Lithium often called the “white gold” of the green revolution is a vital component in the production of batteries for electric vehicles, smartphones, and renewable energy storage systems. Global demand has surged as countries race to phase out fossil fuels and transition toward sustainable energy sources.
Germany’s Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, Robert Habeck, welcomed the discovery, noting that it could play a crucial role in strengthening Europe’s industrial resilience and reducing dependence on foreign supply chains.
“This discovery represents a strategic opportunity for Germany to lead in the electric vehicle and renewable energy sectors,” Habeck said. “If extraction can be done sustainably, it could mark a major milestone in our green transition.”
Neptune Energy confirmed that it plans to work closely with German authorities and environmental agencies to develop eco-friendly extraction methods, using geothermal energy to minimize the carbon footprint of lithium production.
Industry analysts believe the Saxony discovery could reshape the global lithium market, shifting some of the supply dominance away from Australia, Chile, and China toward Europe.
Feasibility studies and pilot extraction projects are expected to begin soon, with full-scale production projected to start within the next decade —potentially making Germany a central hub in the global electric vehicle and renewable energy supply chain.
