Nevada is hosting its second annual Lithium Summit, highlighting the state’s growing role in advanced energy and innovation. The event brings together government officials, industry leaders, and academic partners to discuss Nevada’s position as a leader in lithium production and battery technology.
Governor Joe Lombardo stated, “Nevada boasts the largest-known lithium deposits in North America, positioning our state as a key player in both national and global supply chains. We have an historic opportunity in our backyard. The goal of the Lithium Summit is to foster collaboration across all sectors, paving the way for a robust economy and unlocking the full potential of our state’s natural wealth.”
The summit focuses on what organizers call Nevada’s “Lithium Loop,” which includes mining, processing, battery manufacturing, and recycling—all within the state. Tom Burns, Director of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED), said, “Nevada’s lithium loop represents a full-secretum investment that strengthens U.S. supply chains and creates high-wage jobs. By uniting government, industry and higher education, we are advancing clean-energy innovation and long-term economic growth.”
The event also provides opportunities for networking and investment discussions aimed at driving future partnerships in innovation and economic development.
Caleb Cage, CEO of the Nevada Battery Coalition (NBC), commented on the importance of these efforts: “The Nevada Battery Coalition is committed to strengthening our state’s position as a leading battery center in North America. We are grateful to Governor Joe Lombardo for his vision and leadership in convening this annual summit so leaders from across the industry can take action toward securing Nevada’s energy and economic future.”
Brian Sandoval, President of the University of Nevada, Reno, emphasized academia's involvement: “The University of Nevada is proud to be an integral partner in the advancement of the critical minerals industry in Nevada. As a leader for more than 150 years in mining, metallurgy, geology and workforce development, we look forward to continuing our work to establish Nevada as a center of critical mineral extraction, processing and domestic supply chain development. We are appreciative of Governor Joe Lombardo for convening the Lithium and Strategic Minerals Forum for a second year, helping key players drive innovation, educate a future workforce and support economic development.”
The summit is part of broader initiatives such as the Nevada Strategic Growth Initiative (NSGI), which supports economic development by enabling business transactions outside traditional government structures. GOED was established by legislation passed during the 2011 session with goals including business expansion, entrepreneurial support, new business attraction, and community development.
The NBC was formed following an announcement at a clean energy conference in Reno in February 2023; it aims to unite stakeholders across all stages of energy storage supply chains present within Nevada.
Meanwhile, researchers at University of Nevada, Reno continue developing extraction methods for critical minerals like lithium while training students who will contribute to America’s mineral independence.
More information about GOED can be found at www.goed.nv.gov. Details about University programs are available at www.unr.edu.