“The United Downs project sets a precedent for deep geothermal exploration across the rest of the UK – using previously untapped renewable resources in Cornwall to deliver 24/7 baseload power needed to support the UK’s energy system. It’s exciting that as well as delivering our first ever geothermal electricity, the project will also help to support the UK’s growing EV industry by producing commercial scale lithium for EV batteries. We’re really proud to have been invested in the project from the start and are now looking forward to seeing it deliver positive impact both locally and nationally, providing crucial baseload power and helping to reduce UK carbon emissions.”

“We are proud to be at the forefront of this landmark step for the UK, generating geothermal electricity and lithium by harnessing the resources beneath our feet. This is a huge advancement for geothermal power in the UK and the beginning of our expansion plans. Geothermal energy and critical minerals extraction are naturally complementary as they share the same subsurface resource. The hot, mineral-rich fluids that generate clean electricity can also be processed to recover strategic materials like lithium as well as rare earth minerals. Therefore, collocating power and mineral extraction plants maximises capital investment in the wells, minimises surface disruption (as everything happens underground, not via huge open cast mines at the surface) and accelerates the transition to secure domestic supply in both sectors. The United Downs plants prove that we can do this in a way that benefits the climate and the local and national economy.”

“The UK’s first ever geothermal power is a groundbreaking moment for UK energy innovation, powering thousands of homes with clean, homegrown power.  
 
With zero carbon lithium now being produced here in the UK, British businesses are leading the way in securing the materials needed to power the next generation of electric cars.”