# Mineral exploration in Andalusia

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/mineral-exploration-in-andalusia
> Updated: 2026-08-29T10:16:19.000Z. Sources: 10. Developments: 2.

Andalusia has initiated a new phase of mineral exploration, utilizing 73 active research permits across 80 municipalities. These investigations target approximately 50 different substances, specifically focusing on 27 minerals identified by the European Union as strategic or critical for industrial development and the energy transition. 

Targeted minerals include lithium, cobalt, nickel, copper, and rare earths, which are essential for renewable energy technologies, electronics, and electric vehicle batteries. Much of the activity is concentrated in Huelva, which holds 38 permits. This initiative is part of the Sustainable Mining Strategy for Andalusia 2030, intended to decrease European reliance on third-party countries for essential raw materials.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-29: Andalusia expands mineral exploration as North Macedonia eyes copper project

While Andalusia, Spain, ramps up exploration for 27 critical minerals to bolster European industry, North Macedonia seeks to activate its confirmed copper potential through the Ilovica–Štuka project.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/andalusia-expands-mineral-exploration-as-north-macedonia-eyes-copper-project

### 2026-08-21: Andalusia expands exploration for 27 strategic minerals

Andalusia is conducting extensive mineral exploration with 73 active permits to locate 27 strategic minerals, such as lithium and cobalt, essential for Europe's energy transition and industrial sectors.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/andalusia-expands-exploration-for-27-strategic-minerals

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Cite as: Mineral exploration in Andalusia. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/mineral-exploration-in-andalusia