A new study by the US Geological Survey (USGS) has uncovered a massive lithium reserve in the Smackover Formation in Arkansas.

Researchers say the Smackover Formation could hold enough lithium to supply global demand for years to come — if it can be commercially recovered.

New research suggests Arkansas may be home to up to 19 million tons of lithium reserves, potentially giving the U.S. the chance to lead in the EV industry.

Federal and state researchers said there might be five million to 19 million tons of lithium, more than enough to meet the world’s demand for the battery ingredient.

Researchers now estimate how much “white gold” may be found in southern Arkansas's vast lithium reserves: up to 19 million tons, or enough to meet the projected 2030 world demand nine times over.

A recent article published in the journal Science Advances suggests that Arkansas may have as much as 19 million tons of raw lithium, which could be mined and used in rechargeable batteries.