Lithium as a basis for the development of transport electrification: assessment of Russia's resource potential and its development prospects

In today's environment, lithium is becoming a central element of the energy transition, playing a strategic role and a foundation for national technological sovereignty. In the context of the Russian Federation, the creation of a domestic, complete lithium production chain is becoming a prerequisite for the full development of the Russian electric transport and alternative energy sectors. However, the analysis reveals that domestic lithium production companies are almost completely dependent on imported raw materials. The development of domestic lithium mining and processing is hampered by high production costs, the need for significant investment, the lack of a comprehensive government policy and support instruments, and the underdevelopment of modern industrial technologies for processing complex refractory ores. In this regard, a comprehensive assessment of Russia's lithium mineral resource base and its development prospects is particularly relevant.