Berkeley Energia reports promising lithium and rubidium recoveries from its Conchas Project in Spain, while its subsidiary pursues a $1 billion arbitration claim against Spain over regulatory hurdles at the Salamanca uranium project.
- Positive preliminary metallurgical test results at Conchas Project
- 78% lithium and 63% rubidium recovery via flotation and magnetic separation
- International arbitration initiated against Spain seeking US$1 billion compensation
- Strong cash position with A$71 million and no debt
- Ongoing exploration and environmental compliance in Spain and Portugal
Promising Metallurgical Results at Conchas
Berkeley Energia Limited has unveiled encouraging preliminary metallurgical test results from its Conchas Project in western Spain. The tests, conducted by SLR Consulting Ltd on samples from diamond core drilling in 2024, demonstrated robust recoveries of lithium (78%) and rubidium (63%) through flotation and magnetic separation techniques. These findings highlight the potential economic viability of extracting these critical minerals, which are essential for advanced technologies and renewable energy applications.
The Conchas Project hosts shallow, thick zones of lithium and rubidium mineralisation within a muscovitic leucogranite unit, alongside accessory elements such as tin, caesium, beryllium, niobium, and tantalum. The company is advancing 3D geological modelling to refine resource estimates and plans further metallurgical optimisation to enhance recovery processes.
Legal Dispute with Spain Over Salamanca Project
In parallel with its exploration progress, Berkeley’s wholly owned subsidiary, Berkeley Exploration Limited, has initiated international arbitration proceedings against the Kingdom of Spain. The dispute centers on regulatory actions affecting the Salamanca uranium project, where Berkeley alleges violations of the Energy Charter Treaty. The company is seeking preliminary compensation of approximately US$1 billion.
Despite the arbitration, Berkeley remains committed to the Salamanca Project and expresses openness to constructive dialogue with Spanish authorities to resolve permitting challenges amicably. The arbitration timetable is progressing, with the Statement of Claim expected in early 2026.
Strategic Position and Exploration Initiatives
Berkeley maintains a strong financial position, reporting A$71 million in cash reserves and no debt as of September 2025. The company continues to advance its Critical Minerals Exploration Initiative across multiple tenements in Spain and Portugal, targeting lithium, rubidium, tin, tantalum, and other battery and critical metals. Environmental compliance remains a priority, with recent audits confirming adherence to ISO standards.
The company also highlights the strategic importance of rubidium, classified as a critical mineral by the US and Japan due to its applications in defence, aerospace, communications, and renewable energy sectors. This underscores the broader market relevance of Berkeley’s exploration efforts beyond uranium.
Outlook and Next Steps
Looking ahead, Berkeley plans to complete further metallurgical testing to optimise recovery methods and expand geological modelling to support resource estimation. The outcome of the arbitration with Spain will be a key determinant for the Salamanca Project’s future trajectory. Meanwhile, ongoing exploration and permitting activities in Spain and Portugal aim to unlock additional critical mineral resources, positioning Berkeley as a significant player in Europe’s strategic minerals landscape.
Bottom Line?
Berkeley’s dual progress in critical minerals recovery and legal arbitration sets the stage for pivotal developments in its Spanish projects.
Questions in the middle?
- How will the arbitration outcome impact Berkeley’s Salamanca Project timeline and financing?
- What are the potential economic implications of optimising lithium and rubidium recovery at Conchas?
- Could Berkeley’s exploration in Portugal yield significant new critical mineral resources?