Ryan Kelly | Imperial County’s Lithium Valley: Powering Progress and Community Renewal

In this episode of Healthy Desert Healthy You, host Will Dean welcomes Imperial County Supervisor Ryan Kelly for an in-depth conversation about Lithium Valley—the transformative geothermal and mineral extraction hub near the Salton Sea. Kelly explains how decades of geothermal development have laid the foundation for a new era of clean energy, job creation, and regional economic growth. He also addresses community concerns about environmental impact, transparency, and local benefits, highlighting over 600 public engagement meetings and inclusive planning with tribal nations. Discover how this initiative could redefine renewable energy in Southern California and bring prosperity to both Imperial and Riverside Counties.

Takeaways:

·      Lithium Valley has supplied geothermal power for over 40 years.

·      New mineral extraction could create hundreds of high-paying local jobs.

·      The closed-loop geothermal system minimizes environmental impact.

·      Development sites are on land, not within the Salton Sea.

·      Community and tribal engagement shaped the multi-year planning process.

·      Over 600 public meetings ensured transparency and inclusion.

·      The Southeast California Economic Zone could boost regional investment.

·      The project aims to bring shared prosperity across county lines.

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