Biden to authorize Defense Production Act for battery metals: White House

US President Joe Biden will issue a directive authorizing the use of the Defense Production Act to secure US production of critical materials, including lithium, nickel, cobalt, graphite, and manganese, the White House said March 31.

The DPA will be authorized to support the production and processing of minerals and materials used for large capacity batteries, reducing US reliance on China and other countries, according to a White House fact sheet.

The Department of Defense will implement this authority "using strong environmental, labor, community, and tribal consultation standards," the White House said, noting the sectors supported by large capacity batteries – power and transportation – account for more than half of US carbon emissions.

Biden is also reviewing potential further uses of DPA – in addition to minerals and materials – to secure safer, cleaner, and more resilient energy for America, according to the statement.

Biden is scheduled to deliver remarks at 1:30 pm ET.