Talga Group announced today that the environmental permit for its Nunasvaara South natural graphite mine, part of its vertically integrated Vittangi Anode Project in northern Sweden, has been approved.
The company said that the positive decision handed down by the Swedish Land and Environment Court yesterday, included the grant to Talga of a Natura 2000 permit, adding that the decision is subject to a three-week period when appeals can be lodged.
Talga noted that following this positive environmental permitting decision and Natura 2000 permit grant, the Swedish Mining Inspectorate is expected to make a decision on the company’s Nunasvaara South exploitation concession application.
Managing Director Mark Thompson commented, “This key approval is a significant achievement, and a major step in Talga establishing its Swedish natural graphite anode production. The approval is the culmination of extensive technical, environmental and social studies over many years and has followed a highly rigorous permitting process.
“We look forward to continued engagement with all stakeholders as we progress towards mining this strategic resource for use in sustainable European battery production.” The Nunasvaara South graphite mine is designed to feed Talga’s planned 19,500tpa battery anode manufacturing plant, which is progressing through a separate permitting process.
Talga said it is currently in advanced negotiations with a range of European battery makers, including previously announced ACC and Verkor, regarding supply agreements for its graphite anode products. Separately, the company is in discussions with multiple EU and commercial financial institutions regarding finance for the Vittangi Anode Project.
Source: Kitco