In comparison, the battery plants under discussion are projected to generate up to 2000 jobs each. The extraction process, among the three plants in development, is projected to generate 500-700 jobs, when fully in operation. It is the battery manufacturing that offers the larger number of jobs, compared to extraction. The challenges here currently lie in persuading major battery manufacturing firms to locate in the County, and tie into the extraction plants. The project’s second main component is the siting in Imperial County of battery manufacturing plants that will utilize the lithium. Local community groups are questioning what benefits local residents will see from these projects.

Environmental groups are raising questions concerning the excavation impacts on the water supply and air quality in the area. The extraction process is not without its challenges from environmental groups and local community groups.