Cornwall Takes Major Step in UK’s Lithium Revolution: Plaque Unveiled At First Lithium Hydroxide Demonstration Plant

A commemorative plaque was unveiled on Friday to mark the launch of Cornish Lithium’s new Demonstration Plant at the Trelavour Hard Rock Project in St Dennis, Cornwall. Local dignitaries, government officials, industry experts, and community champions gathered for the unveiling, with Lord Falmouth leading the ceremony as he pulled back the velvet curtain to reveal the plaque.

A Landmark for Clean Energy

The event was a significant milestone for Cornwall and the UK’s efforts to secure a domestic supply of lithium, a critical mineral used in electric vehicles (EVs) and grid-scale electricity storage. Lithium is essential for the UK’s transition to clean power, and this plant represents a major step toward the commercial production of lithium in Britain. Cornish Lithium’s new facility is poised to deliver long-term economic benefits and high-skilled jobs for the region.

Speaking at the event, Jeremy Wrathall, the Founder, Interim Chairman, and CEO of Cornish Lithium, expressed his gratitude to everyone who contributed to making the Demonstration Plant a reality. He recognised the efforts of Lord Falmouth and the Tregothnan Estate, alongside investors and partners such as the National Wealth Fund and The Energy & Minerals Group.

The UK Government’s Business and Trade Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds, also sent his congratulations, praising Cornish Lithium for its contribution to securing high-skilled jobs and supporting the UK’s critical minerals supply chain.

A Historic Moment for Cornwall

In his speech, Lord Falmouth drew parallels between Cornwall’s mining history and the modern lithium industry, emphasising the importance of embracing new technology to address global challenges. He reflected on how the county has adapted to industrial shifts, from the decline of tin and china clay to the rise of renewable energy technologies like electric vehicles.

“Trelavour has a wonderful 200-year history of developing new technology for the china clay industry,” Lord Falmouth said. “We have to move on, and with the world’s problems, we need to use new technology to ensure a secure source of lithium for the UK.”

Looking to the Future

With this launch, Cornish Lithium is on track to become a key player in the UK’s lithium supply chain, which will be crucial for the electric vehicle industry and renewable energy storage. The Trelavour Hard Rock Project alone is expected to produce 10,000 tonnes of lithium hydroxide annually from 2027, while the company’s geothermal waters project could produce another 15,000 tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE).

Cornish Lithium’s efforts aim to provide nearly one-third of the UK’s lithium needs by 2030, reducing reliance on imports and supporting the growth of a domestic battery industry.

As the event concluded, attendees were invited to tour the new Demonstration Plant and the historic china clay pit, which is now being revitalised to support the UK’s green revolution. The plaque unveiled by Lord Falmouth commemorated the event, reading:

“Trelavour Lithium Project Mineral Processing Demonstration Plant. This plaque was unveiled by The Rt Hon EAH 10th Viscount Falmouth. To commemorate the official opening on the 18th of October 2024.”

For more information on Cornish Lithium’s projects, visit Cornish Lithium.

Photo Credit: Cornish Lithium