Ministry of Energy and Mines highlights the potential of the "lithium strip" between Puno, Moquegua and Cusco.
The Vice Minister of Mines of the Ministry of Energy and Mines (Minem), Henry Luna, announced that there are currently two lithium projects in Peru that are processing their permits to begin the exploration phase.
These statements occurred in the context of a growing interest in this mineral, known as the "new white gold", due to its high demand in various industries.
Luna explained that, in addition to these two projects in the permitting process, there are requests for new areas for lithium research.
"We are hearing from some investors who are already investigating lithium, although they have not yet presented their technical files," indicated the Institute of Mining Engineers of Peru (IIMP).
Once these documents are presented, new actors could be incorporated into the investment portfolio.
READ ALSO:Peru advances in the search for lithium
The areas of interest for these studies are located in the region between Puno, Moquegua and Cusco, an area called the "lithium strip."
The vice minister highlighted the importance of confirming international reserves through these studies and the transfer of information to the private sector for future concessions.
LITHIUM TRAPEZE
Lithium has gained relevance worldwide due to its use in rechargeable batteries for electric vehicles, electronic devices and other technological applications. The General Directorate of Mining Promotion and Sustainability of the Ministry of Energy and Mines (Minem) indicated in May of this year that the main demand comes from the transportation sector, a trend that will continue to grow as cleaner alternatives to mining engines are sought. internal combustion.
In Peru, initial lithium exploration has focused on the Andean Trapezium area, which covers areas of Argentina, Chile, Bolivia and Peru. According to Carmelo Condori, director of Mining Promotion at Minem, preliminary studies have been carried out in the south of the country, especially in Puno, Tacna, Moquegua, Arequipa and Cusco, where there are indications of the presence of lithium.
The Falchani project, run by the Macusani Yellowcake company, is one of the most advanced in the Puno region.
This initiative is in the process of obtaining permits to begin exploration and hopes to confirm the presence of proven lithium reserves. The company presented a semi-detailed Environmental Impact Study (EIA) that is currently being evaluated by Minem.
The Falchani project plans to begin construction of its production plant in 2027, with an estimated investment of 867 million dollars. This plant aims to produce 25,000 tons of lithium carbonate annually in its first three years, increasing its capacity to 50,000 tons in the fourth year and reaching 100,000 tons annually in the eleventh year.
