French mining group Imerys has suspended development of its lithium project in the United Kingdom. The company announced the decision to halt development in Cornwall in order to focus on a more advanced project in France. The project in southwestern England was expected to produce more than 20,000 tons of lithium carbonate annually. This amount could have met the needs of around 500,000 electric vehicles.
“Care and maintenance” mode
When presenting its annual results, the company stated that the UK project would be placed in “care and maintenance” mode, suspending active development. Meanwhile, no specific timetable for a possible resumption was given. The company justified its decision by stating that managing two projects of this magnitude in different countries simultaneously was difficult.
Focus on “Emili” in Central France
The focus will now be on the “Emili” project in Central France which is projected to achieve an annual production of 34,000 tons of lithium hydroxide by the year of 2030. According to Imerys, the French government plans to invest 50 million euros for a minority stake.
Source:
https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/imerys-freezes-uk-lithium-project-focus-france-2026-02-19/
