12.11. 2025 / Tony Lloyd
Tees Valley Lithium (TVL) is leading efforts to secure the future of lithium refining in the UK. Based in the heart of Teesside’s industrial and chemical cluster, and within the Teesside Freeport, TVL is developing a world-class lithium refining hub to meet Europe’s accelerating demand for battery-grade materials.
The demand for lithium is surging, driven by the rapid rise of electric vehicles, renewable energy storage systems and digital infrastructure. Yet over 90% of global lithium refining currently takes place in East Asia, with China alone responsible for more than 60% of global capacity. This concentration creates major strategic vulnerabilities for Europe, including supply chain disruptions, price volatility and geopolitical risk.
TVL is changing that. From its Teesside base, the project will deliver battery-grade lithium, providing a local, reliable and sustainable supply to support British and European battery manufacturers as they scale up production for the energy transition.
The Tees Valley Lithium Project Supplier Chain Event, held on 12 November 2025, saw Tony Lloyd, ECIA Regional Industrial Relations Manager, attend on behalf of ECIA member companies to explore the opportunities this transformative initiative could bring to the region.
Now, backed by the Alkemy Capital Investment Plc, the client is actively engaging with engineering construction companies to establish a secure supply chain. ECIA members are encouraged to register their interest via the project QR code or the link in our Member Zone article, to gain early visibility of upcoming work packages.
