Norway Strengthens Role in EU Critical Raw Materials Supply Chain

Norway is emerging as a pivotal player in Europe’s critical raw materials supply chain, driven by strategic partnerships and resource development projects. The country’s mineral reserves, including nickel, cobalt, and copper, are becoming increasingly essential for clean energy technologies such as electric vehicles and renewable energy infrastructure. In 2024, Norway and the EU signed a bilateral Green Alliance to integrate value chains for critical raw materials and battery production.

Key initiatives include Kuniko Ltd’s flagship Ertelien project in the Ringerike Battery Metals District, which holds an estimated 71,000 tonnes of nickel, 49,000 tonnes of copper, and 5,600 tonnes of cobalt. The project spans 405 km² and shares geological similarities with Canada’s Voisey’s Bay deposits. Kuniko is advocating for EU recognition of the project under the Critical Raw Materials Act to support Europe’s clean energy transition.

Additionally, BHP and Kingsrose Mining have entered exploration alliances targeting nickel and copper in Norway and Finland. BHP plans to invest up to $56 million over the next decade to develop these resources. This collaboration underscores Norway’s growing importance in securing sustainable supplies of critical minerals for Europe.

Norway’s strategic role extends beyond metals like nickel and cobalt. The country also possesses significant graphite and titanium resources, which are vital for aerospace, defense, and battery applications. These resources complement Norway’s renewable energy abundance, enabling low-carbon production processes that align with Europe’s green transition goals.