Stories from Dresden · Germany

Large lithium deposits are suspected in the German states of Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt. The project aims to improve long-term raw material supply within Europe. Michael Schmidt of the German Agency for Raw Materials stated the project could help make Europe more independent from major raw material giants. Schmidt noted that while lithium from Chile is a factor for electric vehicles worldwide, domestic supplies are for long-term security. The deposits are located in eastern Germany. Europe is seeking to increase lithium production to reduce dependence on imports from China for electric vehicles and smartphones. Finland has already commenced operations at its first lithium mine and refinery. The demand for lithium is rising significantly due to the need for batteries in electronic devices. The discovery could potentially reduce European dependence on foreign lithium supplies.

Taiwanese semiconductor manufacturer TSMC invited residents of Volkersdorf to an exclusive site tour of its ESMC chip factory in Dresden. The visit provided insights into the ongoing construction of the facility.