Climate Tech's Poldark

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:[00:02:14]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 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]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] 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]Insights into European supply chains, partnerships, and the strategic importance of lithium beyond the UK.[00:26:00] 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 LithiumThe Times Earth Summit: Join Ben Cook and other experts in London for an in-depth look at climate and energy policy. Register for The Times Earth SummitSifted: Freya Pratty’s coverage of climate tech startups and subscribe to her Climate Tech newsletter. Sifted.euSubscription Info:If you're enjoying Wicked Problems - Climate Tech Conversations, make sure to subscribe at wickedproblems.earth for ad-free episodes and early access to new content. Consider supporting the show with a paid subscription to help keep these conversations going. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.