In this work, we describe an evaluation of an Mg–Li alloy (Li: 13 wt %) for possible use in magnesium primary reserve batteries. Higher OCP for the Mg–Li alloy have been observed in 2 M MgCl2 and MgBr2 electrolyte. The corrosion rate of the Mg–Li alloy is found to be in the order: MgCl2 < Mg(COOCH3)2 < MgSO4 < MgBr2 < Mg(ClO4)2. Mg–Li alloys exhibit higher (81%) anodic efficiencies even when the current density is increased to 8.6 mA cm −2. It has been observed that Mg–Li/MgCl2/CuO cells offer higher operating voltage and capacity than those with the conventionally used Mg–Al alloy.