GEL Plans to Extract Geothermal Lithium from Cornwall

Geothermal Engineering Limited (GEL) has embarked on a pioneering initiative to harness the potential of its geothermal projects in Cornwall, UK, with the aim of generating an annual output of approximately 100 tonnes of Lithium Carbon Equivalent (LCE). This strategic move follows a series of successful tests conducted at the deep geothermal wells in United Downs, revealing lithium concentrations of around 340 parts per million (ppm) in the geothermal fluid. This remarkable concentration places the project among the highest in terms of lithium content identified in any commercial geothermal lithium venture in Europe.

The flagship project driving this ambitious endeavor is the United Downs Deep Geothermal Project (UDDGP), where GEL has successfully drilled two geothermal wells—a production well plunging to a depth of 5275 meters and a reinjection well reaching 2393 meters. Anticipated to commence power production in 2024, the United Downs project stands as the UK's pioneering integrated deep geothermal power and heat initiative.

GEL's strategic vision encompasses achieving a production milestone of 100 tonnes per annum of LCE by late 2024, with ambitious plans for further escalation to a minimum of 1,000 tonnes per annum by 2026. The company has already secured planning permission for two additional geothermal projects in Cornwall, setting the stage for the rapid scaling up of production to over 12,000 tonnes per annum in the UK by 2030. This substantial production capacity is poised to support the manufacturing of approximately 250,000 electric vehicle batteries for an average-sized car. To provide context, this quantity would have represented 94% of the LCE required to supply the 267,000 new Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) registered in the UK in 2022.

The foundation of GEL's ambitious plan lies in the successful exploration and testing of the geothermal wells at United Downs, a process that has unveiled not only impressive lithium concentrations but also the potential to revolutionize sustainable lithium production.

GEL's strategic vision for scaling up its lithium production involves a phased approach. The initial target of 100 tonnes per annum of LCE by late 2024 sets the foundation for subsequent expansions. By 2026, the company envisions a substantial increase to a minimum of 1,000 tonnes per annum, showcasing a commitment to meeting the growing demand for lithium, particularly in the context of the booming electric vehicle market.

The financial injection from the Automotive Transformation Fund (ATF) Scale-Up Readiness program serves as a testament to the industry's recognition of GEL's potential and the importance of sustainable lithium production.