Nevada Battery Coalition: Innovation and Collaboration in the Silver State

Nevada has long been the epicenter of lithium production in the U.S. In fact, ever since its Silver Peak lithium mine opened in the 1960s, the state has been a keystone for the industry. But the introduction of electric vehicles (EVs) has increased demand for the element. Now, the area needs a more robust infrastructure. In response, new organizations like the Nevada Battery Coalition (NBC) are stepping in to provide a united industry effort. Large-scale expansions to lithium production in Nevada, such as the Rhyolite Ridge and Thacker Pass project, are already underway, creating a clear path forward to boost production. That said, the complexity and environmental concerns of lithium extraction call for different types of companies to come together. The Nevada Battery Coalition is essential to share technological innovations, ensure sustainable practices, and navigate the regulatory landscape. Let’s learn more about the NBC and its role in the lithium industry. Supporting the Lithium Battery Industry: What Is the Nevada Battery Coalition? Turning Nevada into the center of one of the most economically and environmentally important industries in the country takes some experienced support. At least, this was the idea behind the Nevada Battery Coalition’s founding announcement in February 2023 at the Nevada Clean Energy & Transportation Conference. The announcement cemented the future of lithium in Nevada, setting up the support network necessary for rapid advancement. Why Was the Nevada Battery Coalition Formed? To understand why the Nevada Battery Coalition was formed, you only need to look at the state’s natural abundance of lithium. Nevada plays a critical role in the global lithium market. The need to foster this resource in a balanced, responsible, and efficient way led to the creation of the NBC. As a founding member, Dragonfly Energy’s involvement highlights the Coalition’s proactive stance to promote sustainable and innovative energy solutions. Its mission is to accelerate the development and adoption of advanced lithium battery technology in Nevada. What’s more, the NBC strives to steward the industry’s growth in the area through training, public promotion, and economic development. Essentially, Coalition members are using their expertise to build up the Nevada lithium industry. The NBC’s Role in the Nevada Lithium Battery Industry The NBC is still a new organization. But despite the relatively short time frame since its inception, the Coalition has already made a significant impact. For instance, the focus of the NBC’s efforts has targeted the key growing pains Nevada’s lithium industry faces. This breaks down into two primary impacts: 1. Making Short Work in a Short Time The NBC is helping to position Nevada to become a global leader in the lithium supply chain. With an eye for efficient demand fulfillment, the partnerships within the NBC encompass the entire lifecycle of lithium use. This includes everything from extraction and battery production to recycling. The Coalition’s members are focused on rapidly growing the industry within the state. For example, companies like Ioneer, which is advancing the Rhyolite Ridge project, and Dragonfly Energy, known for its innovative battery technologies work together in different phases of the supply chain to vertically integrate within the state. This sets the stage for both rapid and significant increases in lithium battery production. 2. Ways the NBC Supports Clean Energy Production Lithium-ion batteries are essential to the ongoing introduction of clean energy technologies. Everything from electric vehicles to renewable energy system storage all rely on lithium. So, in many ways, the element is clearing the way for the green power revolution, reducing the overall dependence on fossil fuels as a result. NBC’s members are committed to establishing lithium production centers in Nevada that are environmentally and socially conscious. This can further the overall effort toward a green energy future. Joining the Nevada Battery Coalition At the end of the day, the Nevada Battery Coalition was established to propel the state’s burgeoning lithium industry forward. Nevada’s vast lithium resources are a cornerstone for the future of renewable energy. As such, the NBC is a collection of companies that are working to set up the local industry in both an efficient and environmentally responsible way. The Coalition aims to make Nevada a global leader in full-cycle lithium production. Its goals are ambitious but clear: Foster innovation Support sustainable practices in lithium extraction Enhance the manufacturing and recycling capabilities within Nevada These guidelines seek to close the loop on lithium usage through efficient lithium extraction, battery production, and recycling. The NBC is working toward a future where Nevada’s lithium resources drive the energy transition, contribute to the global supply chain, and bolster the state’s economy. Nevada is at the forefront of the clean energy transition. In fact, partnerships with innovative leaders in battery technology such as Dragonfly Energy show the Coalition’s commitment to a cleaner, more streamlined industry future. Learn more about Dragonfly Energy’s commitment to the Nevada Battery Coalition.