EU Unveils Strategic Raw Materials Projects
Brussels has announced a significant list of EU projects focused on raw materials that will benefit from streamlined procedures as part of efforts to reduce dependence on external suppliers. This initiative aims to secure domestic supply of essential materials.
The long-awaited map of strategic projects under the Critical Raw Materials Act highlights 47 projects selected from 170 applications across EU territory. EU industry chief Stéphane Séjourné stated, "Today, we have identified 47 new strategic projects that, for the first time, will help us secure our own domestic supply of raw materials."
Accelerated Permitting Procedures
The selected mining projects will see permitting procedures shortened to 27 months, significantly reducing what has typically taken decades. However, the Commission stressed that these projects must meet environmental and social requirements under existing legislation. Additionally, they will receive priority status to expedite potential legal proceedings and facilitate access to financing.
Concerns Over Transparency
Despite the positive outlook, NGOs have raised concerns regarding the selection process, claiming a lack of transparency and accountability. Robin Roels, coordinator of the EU Raw Materials Coalition, emphasized the exclusion of civil society, Indigenous Peoples, and independent experts from the decision-making process, urging for more scrutiny and community engagement.
Key Projects in the Iberian Peninsula
The Iberian Peninsula stands out as a significant player, with four projects in Portugal and six in Spain, focusing on critical materials like lithium, copper, cobalt, and nickel. Notably, the Barroso Lithium project in Portugal aims to support Europe's battery supply chain, with production expected to commence in 2027. This project has faced opposition from local communities and NGOs, especially following a corruption probe linked to lithium mining that led to the resignation of former Prime Minister António Costa.
Other Notable Projects Across Europe
The selection includes various projects throughout Europe, such as:
- Germany's Vulcan Energy lithium plant, which aims to boost the electric vehicle market.
- Projects in Poland and Sweden focused on rare earth elements for magnets.
- The Talga Natural Graphite ONE project in Sweden for battery-grade graphite extraction.
- Projects in Czechia for lithium and manganese extraction, which could significantly contribute to Europe's needs by 2030.
- In Finnish Lapland, Anglo American’s Sakatti project is expected to produce around 100,000 tonnes of copper equivalent annually from the early 2030s.
Additionally, Romania and France will see advancements in extraction processes for various materials, while Greece focuses on integrated extraction projects for bauxite and aluminium.
This list currently pertains only to EU countries, with 46 applications for projects in third countries still under consideration.
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