Bradda Head, a UK-based lithium development group, has said it could use geothermal methods at its Eureka asset in Nevada, to lower the carbon footprint of lithium production.
The company announced exploration results following a magnetotellurics survey from Zonge Engineering and Terravision Exploration's GPRPlus surveys, which showed the presence of brine and clay deposits.
According to the company, geothermally heated water with anomalous lithium levels is seen at the surface near Eureka, which was previously tested in 2016.
Charles FitzRoy, chief executive officer of Bradda Head, said the surveys would enable the company to proceed with plans for a drilling programme to "test the observed brine reservoir" and a shallow drill programme to "maximise the resource's full potential" as it explores the asset's lower basin.
According to FitzRoy, the geothermal potential of the area would also enable the company to lower its carbon footprint and cut costs for lithium extraction.
"Eureka has additional benefits in that it has demonstrated considerable geothermal potential," FitzRoy claimed.
"This is a key point as it could enable us to lower our carbon footprint and running costs for lithium extraction from Eureka.
He said the company would announce further developments at Eureka "over the course of 2022."