UK Mining Conference Highlights Cornwall’s Role in Critical Minerals and Electrification

Over 440 delegates gather in Falmouth as industry leaders focus on lithium, battery metals and Britain’s mineral future

How can Cornwall help drive the global switch to clean energy? That was one of the key questions tackled during the sixth UK Mining Conference, which took place at Falmouth’s Princess Pavilion on Wednesday 11th and Thursday 12th June.

Held in Cornwall for good reason, the conference drew a record-breaking 440 delegates from 15 countries and 220 organisations, including eight government departments and three MPs. It has become one of the key events in the international mining calendar and is seen as central to shaping the UK’s role in the future of critical minerals.

Focus on Cornwall’s Potential

Originally created by Cornish Lithium and now hosted by Jay One Events, the UK Mining Conference provides a platform for investors, mine operators, manufacturers, academics and service providers to share insight into the fast-developing sector of critical minerals.

As the UK aims to reduce its reliance on imports and secure supplies of key battery metals for electrification, Cornwall’s mineral-rich geology is once again in the spotlight.

Jeremy Wrathall, Founder and Executive Chairman of Cornish Lithium, said the event focused on the vital role critical minerals will play in the UK economy. “Cornwall and the south west has the potential to lead the way in this arena,” said Jeremy, adding that there is now a need to “create our own industry, exploit our own resources responsibly, build resilience, foster collaborative partnerships, secure domestic supplies, deliver jobs and demonstrate that clean and green modern mineral extraction provides a credible and rewarding career choice for future generations.”

The event also aligns with the UK Government’s Critical Minerals Strategy and follows the recent Spending Review which pledged £86 billion for science and technology, including battery development.

📷 A trio of Cornish MPs - Noah Law, Jayne Kirkham and Perran Moon - Image Credit Stephen Woodcock

Packed Programme Across Two Days

This year’s conference included a new Geothermal Forum featuring 24 speakers and 120 delegates. A Geologists’ Breakout Session brought together 40 participants and a sell-out ‘Inside Mining’ seminar at the National Maritime Museum Cornwall offered further chances for collaboration and learning.

There were also fully booked site visits to key players in the region including Cornish Lithium, Cornwall Resources, GSL – part of the Alfred H Knight Group, Holman Wilfley, Tungsten West and Wardell Armstrong.

The Camborne School of Mines (CSM) hosted a stand featuring the Camborne School of Mines Association, the Critical Minerals Challenge Centre, the Critical Minerals Equipment Hub and the Cornwall Mining and Geo-Resources Alliance. CSM staff, including Professor Frances Wall, took part in expert panels throughout the event and also opened their laboratories and teaching spaces at the University of Exeter’s Penryn Campus for tours.

Professor Pat Foster, Head of CSM, said: “We were proud to open our doors to showcase the outstanding work underway at the UK’s only school of mines. From our state-of-the-art labs to our leading role in advancing critical minerals research, CSM continues to uphold its global reputation and support Cornwall’s resurgence as a major player in the global mineral extraction industry.”

Gala Dinner and Awards

The conference closed with a Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony back at the Princess Pavilion. Entertainment came from Cornish folk rock band Du Glas and journalist and broadcaster John Sergeant.

The 2025 winners included:

• Exploration Discovery of the Year: Owen Mihalop (Cornish Metals)

• Rising Star in the Mining Sector: Chloe Bayliss (Cornish Lithium)

• Best Innovation in Mining: Dr Graeme Nicoll (Halliburton)

• Environmental, Social and Governance/Outstanding Community Outreach Project: Ben Lepley (SLR Consulting)

• Lifetime Achievement in the Mining Industry: Mark Cutifani CBE (Vale Base Metals)

Perran Moon, MP for Camborne, Redruth and Hayle, said: “In Cornwall mining isn’t just something we do – it’s part of who we are. If proactively supported, with a looming worldwide tin shortage and exponential demands for lithium as the economy transitions away from fossil fuels, the sector represents a massive opportunity for Cornwall and for UK plc in the coming years.”

Looking Ahead

The next UK Mining Conference will take place on Wednesday 10th and Thursday 11th June 2026. With interest in Cornwall’s role in the UK’s clean energy transition only growing, it’s expected to be another important date for the global mining community.

📷John Sergeant entertains at the Gala Dinner - Image Credit Stephen Woodcock

📷Dr Graeme Nicoll (Right) receives his Best Innovation in Mining Award from David Pearce (Left) - Image Credit Stephen Woodcock

📷Mark Cutifani receives his Lifetime Achievement Award - Image Credit Stephen Woodcock