Lithium Valley and SDSU’s Commitment to a Brighter Future
For nearly 65 years, San Diego State University Imperial Valley has been a part of the Valley community. Through high-impact courses, faculty and staff mentorship, and hands-on research opportunities, we’ve been at the forefront of preparing tens of thousands of students for successful professional careers. The next major development will come through the Lithium Valley initiative.
Imperial Valley is home to one of the world's largest sources of lithium, the essential material for electric vehicle (EV) batteries. Lithium Valley uniquely positions California to be the global hub for lithium battery extraction, and a leader in securing a clean energy future. Lithium Valley has the potential to provide significant economic growth for all the communities of the Valley.
To aid in the success of this priority, SDSU is working to prepare tomorrow’s industry leaders through expanded degree programs, hands-on research, and workforce training.
View the Sciences and Engineering Laboratories
In Aug. 2025, SDSU opened its Sciences and Engineering Laboratories Building at SDSU Imperial Valley, Brawley.
The new SDSU Imperial Valley Sciences and Engineering Laboratories in Brawley will play a significant role for students and faculty to collaborate with one another, while also incorporating a design that speaks to the culture and identity of the surrounding community. This new building is one part of the university's commitment to meeting both current and future geothermal energy and lithium demands – delivering skilled, highly educated professionals who are ready to lead the workforce.
University leaders, staff, faculty, students, elected officials, and other local and regional partners gathered on Monday, Aug. 4, 2025 to commemorate the grand opening with a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony. The event comes just a year and a half after the university broke ground on the Brawley site.
Open the image full screen.The three-year project is a result of $80 million in state funding from California Gov. Gavin Newsom and university investments to expand STEM academic programs, tying into regional plans for major economic development as California’s ‘Lithium Valley.’ Former Sen. Ben Hueso, and former Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia secured the $80 million in state funding.
Tied with the opening of the Sciences and Engineering Laboratories Building, SDSU Imperial Valley is in the process of launching two new undergraduate academic programs in chemistry and electrical engineering. Beginning fall 2025, first-year and transfer students can apply for admission to the chemistry program for fall 2026 enrollment. In spring 2026, both SDSU Imperial Valley public health and nursing students will begin taking laboratory courses in the new facility courses.
SDSU in the News
The San Diego Union Tribune
The Desert Review
Imperial Valley Press
Calexico Chronicle
Research Already Underway
SDSU’s College of Sciences and College of Engineering professors are working on research programs specific to clean energy and energy systems, including geothermal energy and lithium storage, as well as studies tied to the Salton Sea.
Contact SDSU Media Relations
Reporters interested in speaking with subject matter experts or learning more about SDSU Imperial Valley’s role in the Lithium Valley initiative, including the progress currently underway in regards to related research and workforce development, are encouraged to contact a member of the SDSU Media Relations Team.
