Portugal’s First Lithium Mine Delayed to 2027

Portugal’s First Lithium

The launch of commercial lithium extraction at the Barroso mine in Portugal, overseen by UK-based Savannah Resources, has been postponed to 2027. Initially scheduled for 2026, the delay stems from legal hurdles exacerbated by Portugal’s recent political instability, which led to snap elections in March. The elections were triggered by the resignation of Prime Minister Antonio Costa amid the "Operation Influencer" probe, which included an investigation into industrial concessions.

Legal and Environmental Challenges Stall Progress

Savannah Resources has already acquired 100 private properties within the mine’s concession area and initiated a legal process to gain access to remaining lands, which are crucial for completing the second stage of its definitive feasibility study (DFS). Access to these lands was delayed for over half a year due to the political shakeup but is expected to be granted soon.

Despite the delays, Savannah Resources remains on track to deliver the DFS in 2025. The company also anticipates finalizing its environmental licensing within the same timeframe. In May 2023, the Barroso project received conditional approval for its environmental impact statement (EIS), marking a significant milestone for lithium mining on the Iberian Peninsula.

The mine, once operational, is projected to produce around 200,000 tons of spodumene annually, translating to 25,000 tons of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE)—sufficient for more than 500,000 electric vehicle batteries each year.