Lithium is an important element in the production of batteries, particularly for use in electric vehicles (EVs). In addition to its use in EV batteries, lithium is also used in batteries for portable electronics, such as laptops and cell phones, as well as in batteries for renewable energy storage systems, such as those used in solar panel arrays. The demand for lithium has been increasing in recent years due to the growing popularity of EVs, as well as the increasing adoption of renewable energy sources like solar panels. As a result, the production of lithium has become a significant industry, with countries such as Australia, Chile, and Argentina among the top producers of the metal, accounting for 86% of worldwide production in 2020. Lithium production has become a potential national security concern for countries aiming to decarbonise their economies amidst geopolitical tensions.

However, as of early 2023, the United States only has one operational lithium mine, specifically in the state of Nevada. In 2020, the total lithium production in the US was 900 tonnes, equating to roughly 1% of the worldwide production and being en par with Portugal’s output, in which the European Union's only lithium mine is operational.

There have been some plans for new lithium mining projects that have progressed relatively far along the regulatory process, such as Thacker Pass mine in Nevada. However, many of such undertakings have been met with local opposition on a variety of grounds, delaying the process: Three-quarters of lithium reserves are within 35 miles of Native American reservations, which have sparked local opposition to new mining projects.