Germany is taking a bold step toward energy independence and environmental sustainability with the launch of the “Thermion” project, aimed at extracting lithium from geothermal brine using an innovative ion pump technology. Spearheaded by the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE and supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection, the project targets lithium-rich geothermal sources in the Upper Rhine Graben—a region considered highly promising for such extraction.
Unlike conventional lithium mining from hard rock or salt flats—which causes significant CO₂ emissions, consumes large amounts of water, and damages local ecosystems—this method offers a clean alternative. The ion pump selectively captures lithium from thermal water extracted from depths of 3 to 5 kilometers, with the brine subsequently returned to its source almost unchanged. This closed-loop process not only conserves resources but also avoids chemical contamination and landscape disruption.
The Thermion project will focus on both scientific evaluation of regional lithium reserves and the development of a scalable, efficient extraction process. Operating at 15 to 20 bar and 70°C within existing geothermal power systems, the ion pump enhances economic viability by utilizing dual infrastructure for both energy and lithium production.
Backed by €2.6 million in government funding, the three-year initiative also envisions the future extraction of other valuable minerals such as cesium, rubidium, and cobalt. If successful, it could significantly reduce Germany’s dependence on lithium imports from countries like Australia and China, strengthen its battery production sector, and help meet growing demand for this critical mineral—expected to rise six-fold by 2030.
However, challenges remain. To make geothermal lithium extraction a competitive and scalable solution, quicker project approvals and improved cost efficiency are essential. Public support will also be crucial, necessitating transparent communication and community engagement. With legislative support like the proposed Geothermal Acceleration Act, Germany could set a global example for clean, local resource extraction integrated with renewable energy.
