In this two-part episode, host Richard Delevan digs in on critical minerals with Jeremy Wrathall, the founder and CEO of Cornish Lithium. As the UK and other nations navigate their climate goals, we explore how companies like Cornish Lithium are developing sustainable, domestic sources of lithium and other critical minerals essential for the green energy transition. With the recent Labour Party conference and discussions around industrial strategy, this conversation couldn't be more timely.
And we bring back our panel including Ben Cooke, Earth Editor at The Times, Freya Pratty from Sifted, and Ben Kilbey of BOLD VOODOO for insights into policy, energy infrastructure, and the broader European context.
Key Segments:
[00:00:04] - Intro Richard Delevan introduces Jeremy Wrathall as "The high-tech Poldark," referring to Cornish Lithium’s role in reviving the UK's mining industry.
[00:02:14] - Cornish Lithium’s National Significance:
Jeremy explains why Cornish Lithium’s designation as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project is crucial, and how the company aims to supply lithium for EV batteries and grid-scale energy storage.[00:04:07] - The Lithium Market and UK Supply Chain:
The discussion turns to the broader lithium market, its fluctuations, and the role of UK and European supply chains, especially after challenges faced by companies like Britishvolt and Northvolt.[00:11:37] - The Future of Battery Technology:
Jeremy and Richard discuss future innovations in battery technology, including solid-state batteries and the importance of securing local, low-carbon sources of critical minerals like lithium.[00:15:24] - Capital Formation and Government Role:
Jeremy touches on the need for governmental support in de-risking critical mineral investments, comparing UK policy to the US Inflation Reduction Act.[00:18:15] - European vs. UK Lithium Market Outlook:
Insights into European supply chains, partnerships, and the strategic importance of lithium beyond the UK.[00:26:00] - Panel Discussion:
Richard is joined by Ben Cooke (The Times), Freya Pratty (Sifted), and Ben Kilbey (Bold Voodoo) to analyze Labour's climate policy, UK battery supply chain challenges, and Northvolt's recent setbacks.
Links and Resources:
Cornish Lithium: Learn more about the company Jeremy Wrathall leads, which is driving the UK's critical mineral extraction efforts. Cornish Lithium
The Times Earth Summit: Join Ben Cooke and other experts in London for an in-depth look at climate and energy policy. Register for The Times Earth Summit
Sifted: Freya Pratty’s coverage of climate tech startups and subscribe to her Climate Tech newsletter. Sifted.eu
Lightyear Solar Cars: The solar-powered car startup discussed by Freya Pratty. Lightyear
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Climate Tech's Poldark