January 3, 2026
A collapsed supervolcano might not seem like it has much to do with modern technology, but a crater from an eruption 16 million years ago could solve a problem businesses have been wrestling with for years. Researchers discovered an enormous concentration of lithium-rich clay within the McDermitt Caldera, which stretches across the Nevada–Oregon border.
Early estimates suggest the lithium discovery in the supervolcano could contain 20 to 40 million metric tons of lithium-bearing material, placing it among the largest known deposits on Earth. If commercial development confirms these numbers, the deposit’s estimated value could reach $1.5 trillion. More importantly, the deposit could reshape supply chains and long-term business planning in the United States.
Why This Lithium Find Has Business Leaders Paying Attention
Lithium is the backbone of modern technology. It powers electric vehicles, smartphones, grid-scale energy storage, and countless other products. Until now, much of the global lithium supply has come from overseas sources, leaving US businesses exposed to price swings and geopolitical risks.
This lithium discovery in supervolcano territory could give US manufacturers leverage they simply haven’t had before. A domestic source of this size could stabilize pricing, shorten supply chains, and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers. News of the deposit is also welcome to business owners seeking more predictable costs and fewer disruptions.
What This Could Mean for Battery Supply and the Tech Sector
If the McDermitt Caldera moves into full-scale production, it could trigger a true breakthrough in lithium supply for the tech industry. Companies involved in EV manufacturing, battery production, renewable energy, and electronics would benefit from a more reliable domestic supply. Projects like Thacker Pass (part of the caldera) are already advancing, with construction underway and production eyed for late 2027.
Even if your business isn’t involved in production, lower battery costs can reduce operating expenses, improve product margins, and open doors to new services powered by energy storage or electric fleets.
Practical Steps for Tapping Into These Supervolcano Mineral Resources
This discovery is still in the early phases, but you can position yourself to take advantage of it by:
- Monitoring supply chain shifts related to lithium and battery pricing
- Diversifying suppliers and forming partnerships with US-based lithium firms for long-term contracts that could lock in better pricing
- Watching policy developments like grants, tax credits, or loans tied to domestic sourcing
- Marketing sustainability, as highlighting US-sourced lithium (with responsible mining practices), can boost brands
Of course, not every massive mineral find turns into a commercial success. Permitting delays, local opposition, and extraction challenges could all slow progress.
Zooming Out: What This Discovery Signals for US Resources
Beyond lithium alone, this find highlights the untapped potential of supervolcano mineral resources within the United States. It reinforces a broader trend toward reshoring critical materials and investing in domestic energy security.
This lithium discovery in the supervolcano could become a cornerstone of America’s tech future and a real edge for businesses that move early. While it will take years to confirm and develop the McDermitt site (and see whether it lives up to the hype), it’s already forcing companies to rethink where their lithium comes from.
