[2] The California Energy Commission estimates the Salton Sea might produce 600,000 metric tons of lithium carbonate (Li2CO3) per year,[3] of a reserve of 3.4 million tonnes.

[4] The Salton Sea geothermal brine reservoir is located at depths of approximately 0.62 to 1.86 miles (1 to 3 km) below ground and contains fluids at temperatures ranging from 250 °C to 380 °C.

[5] The lake also comprises chloride, sodium, calcium, potassium, and other low-value minerals that are difficult to separate.

[8][9] General Motors announced a strategic partnership with CTR in 2021 to secure a local supply of lithium.

[10] Controlled Thermal Resources is developing a combined lithium extraction and power generation facility in the Hell's Kitchen geothermal field employing a closed-loop process.