Does South Africa have a lithium-ion battery manufacturer?

While South Africa has no lithium-ion battery cell manufacturers, several companies are involved in battery pack assembly. Demand for all types of batteries is also expected to come from the rollout of renewable energy projects.

Should Africa develop a lithium-ion battery plant?

Naicker says it is important to develop a local lithium-ion battery plant, as all lithium-ion batteries used in Africa are currently imported from mega-factories in the northern hemisphere. In fact, he believes there is an “arms-like race” to establish battery production in the northern hemisphere, but with no plans to do the same in Africa.

Why is lithium important in Africa?

Africa has considerable lithium resources, boasting 5% of the world’s total reserves. Lithium is an essential element for the energy transition and is used in a variety of applications including batteries for electric vehicles and energy storage systems.

Where is lithium found in South Africa?

Blesberg Lithium and Tantalum Project, South Africa Situated in the Northern Cape Province of South Africa, the Blesberg project contains a significant amount of lithium – between 250,000 and 400,000 tons.

Which African countries have a high demand for lithium?

As the auto industry shifts towards electric vehicles, lithium-rich African countries such as Zimbabwe and Namibia are poised to benefit from increased global demand. Arcadia Lithium Project, Zimbabwe The project is situated 38km east of Zimbabwe’s capital city of Harare.

What is the largest undeveloped lithium-bearing site in Zimbabwe?

Regarded as the largest undeveloped lithium-bearing site in Zimbabwe, the Zulu lithium and tantalum project will comprise 14 mineral claims covering a surface area of approximately 2.5km 2.