Rare earth project delays in Norway due to environmental concerns

The project's implementation is delayed by concerns about its impact on the environment. Plans to build refining plants in forest areas are particularly controversial.

The Fen complex is located approximately 150 kilometers southwest of Oslo. According to estimates, the deposits contain 15.9 million tons of rare earth oxides, including neodymium and praseodymium. These elements are used to produce strong magnets used, among others, in electric cars, renewable energy installations and military equipment.

Nature conservation issues have hampered progress of work for years. Research carried out in the area of ​​the complex revealed the presence of 78 endangered species of plants and animals - including rare beetles, trees, mosses and fungi.

The government took over the planning

Rare Earths Norway (REN), which holds the mining rights, says the mine itself would be "invisible" because mining and crushing would take place underground. However, processing plants would have to be built above ground.

Earlier this year, the Norwegian government took over responsibility for planning work from local authorities. These include, among others, the analysis of alternative locations for ground infrastructure.

The goal is to prepare a ready plan by 2028 at the latest, and preferably earlier, said Industry Minister Cecilie Myrseth during a press conference on Wednesday.

Europe wants to be less dependent on China

The Norwegian government believes that the Fen Complex can contribute to strengthening the supply chains of key raw materials for Europe and the broader West. There is currently no mining of rare earth metals on the Old Continent, which means that Europe remains largely dependent on supplies from China.

These raw materials are used in the production of a wide range of products - from smartphones and electric cars to combat aircraft. The European Union classifies rare earth metals as critical raw materials.