Hard rock
lithium extraction
We are repurposing a former china-clay pit near St Austell in Cornwall to produce lithium through responsible hard rock extraction.
We plan to extract lithium using a new process technology. This extraction method should produce fewer carbon emissions than other processes used worldwide.
Projected lithium production
We intend to produce 10,000 tonnes per year of battery-grade lithium hydroxide in Cornwall. By rejuvenating an existing pit, the environmental impact of our hard rock extraction is minimal. No new pits will be created, and much of the required infrastructure is already in place, including power, rail and road.
National significance status
Cornish Lithium's Trelavour Hard Rock Project has been designated as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP).The Secretary of State for Housing Communities and Local Government, The Rt Hon Angela Rayner MP, is of the view that the project is nationally significant for the following reasons:
- The project is likely to have significant economic impact and will be important in driving growth, nationally and regionally
- Its influence will impact on a region that is wider than a single local authority area; and
- It focuses on the extraction of a strategically important industrial mineral.
Valuable by-products
In addition to lithium, Cornish Lithium’s hard rock production could create valuable by-products, reducing waste and benefiting various industries. Examples include amorphous silica for green cement, sulphate of potash for fertiliser, and gypsum for plasterboard.
Trelavour
Demonstration Plant
To extract battery-grade lithium from granite rock, several processing steps are required.
Launched in 2024, our Trelavour Demonstration Plant is the UK's first low-emission lithium hydroxide demonstration facility, marking a key step in the nation’s clean energy transition by 2030. Using innovative processing technology, the full-scale plant could result in lower carbon emissions compared to traditional mining methods, paving the way for future full-scale commercial production.
Hard Rock Project
Trelavour
We are repurposing a former china-clay pit near St Austell to produce lithium through responsible hard rock extraction.
Frequently asked questions
We’ve completed drilling campaigns to assess the lithium resource, and our geologists are analysing the results. In October 2024, we officially opened the UK’s first low-emission, lithium hydroxide Demonstration Plant, marking a significant milestone in the UK’s transition to clean power by 2030.
We are finalising a Feasibility Study for the site, with updates to follow as the project progresses.
The demonstration plant allows us to test processes and technologies for the commercial phase. The facility will operate until late 2025 providing critical data for future project developments.
We are aiming for commercial lithium production at our Trelavour Hard Rock Project in 2028.
The project will help shape Cornwall's future by creating sustainable career opportunities and apprenticeships and inject significant investment into the local economy. Community engagement is essential throughout, and reflects our commitment to give back and enhancing local well-being.
The Cornish Lithium Community Fund supports the work of clubs, charities and groups who seek to make a positive difference in the Gwennap, Blackwater, Chacewater, St Day, Carharrack, China Clay network, Redruth Tolgus and St Agnes Parish areas. You can find out more about the fund here:
In 2025, we will operate our Demonstration Plant, advance our Feasibility Study and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), sharing updates as they arise. We will host regular community engagement events and a formal consultation period for public feedback with updates posted on this website.
We welcome individuals, school groups, and organisations to our Hard Rock Project Visitor Centre by pre-booked appointment. Get in touch here to arrange your visit.
Visit our Community Events page and social media channels for updates on available dates and times as the project progresses.
Hard Rock Project
Community Liaison Group
We regularly meet residents who live near our Hard Rock Project to share information and answer questions.
To find when the next session will be held, visit our Community Events page or email us.
