Rare Earths Norway pushes for state approval of Europe's largest rare‑earth deposit

Rare Earths Norway, which spends roughly NOK 100 million a year on its project, is awaiting a state permit to develop the Fensfeltet deposit in Telemark, the continent’s largest known rare‑earth resource. The firm warns that the Norwegian government’s slow response could jeopardise EU funding for the strategically important venture. Rare earths are essential for electric vehicles, defence equipment and green technologies, while China supplies about 60 % of global output.

Founded in 2016, Rare Earths Norway aims to drill more than 35 000 m of core samples this year and has invested over NOK 300 million in the early‑stage mine. It holds extraction rights on roughly 90 % of the deposit, with the remaining share owned by Saga Rare Earths. The company’s geologist Eirik Bache Stokmo called the find "world‑class," and CEO Alf Reistad stressed that Europe currently has no domestic rare‑earth production. In April, the Norwegian government announced plans for a national strategy covering the Fensfeltet field.