Norway says Europe's 'largest' rare-earth mine plan set for 2028
2026-10-10 11:16:50 [Print]
The Norwegian government says it aims to have a plan in place to develop mining facilities at Europe's largest known rare-earth deposit by 2028 at the latest.
The Fen Complex, located about 150 km southwest of Oslo, is estimated to contain 15.9 million tonnes of rare-earth oxides, including neodymium and praseodymium, which are used in powerful magnets for electric vehicles, renewable energy technology and defence equipment.
Environmental concerns have long delayed the project. Surveys in the area identified 78 endangered animal and plant species, including rare beetles, trees, mosses and fungi.
Rare Earths Norway (REN), the company that owns the extraction rights, has said the mine itself would be "invisible", with extraction and crushing taking place below ground. However, surface processing facilities would still be required.
Earlier this year, Norway's government took over the planning work from the municipality, including the study of alternative locations for surface installations.
REN says it hopes to start mining in the first half of the 2030s.
The Fen Complex, located about 150 km southwest of Oslo, is estimated to contain 15.9 million tonnes of rare-earth oxides, including neodymium and praseodymium, which are used in powerful magnets for electric vehicles, renewable energy technology and defence equipment.
Environmental concerns have long delayed the project. Surveys in the area identified 78 endangered animal and plant species, including rare beetles, trees, mosses and fungi.
Rare Earths Norway (REN), the company that owns the extraction rights, has said the mine itself would be "invisible", with extraction and crushing taking place below ground. However, surface processing facilities would still be required.
Earlier this year, Norway's government took over the planning work from the municipality, including the study of alternative locations for surface installations.
REN says it hopes to start mining in the first half of the 2030s.
