It has long been stated that Norway is well-positioned to exploit large mineral deposits in the Norwegian countryside. However – and despite an increased focus on the need for self-sufficiency with respect to critical minerals – actual mining projects have been few and far between. A recent Supreme Court judgment has provided much-needed clarity about when minerals are owned by the Norwegian State and when ownership rests with the landowner.
The green transition - with its focus on renewable energy such as wind power - and our increasingly digitalized society are leading to a higher demand for a variety of minerals, such as lithium, cobalt, copper, nickel, aluminium, and phosphorus. In this light, 16 March 2023 was an important date. On that day, the European Commission published a proposal for a regulation to ensure a secure and sustainable supply of so-called critical raw materials (CRMs). The proposed regulation is an important piece of the puzzle for the transition in Europe. At the same time, we see major risks of collision with a directive, which could slow down the development of the sustainable society of the future.
Getting the Deal Through is an international publication collaborating with many of the world’s leading lawyers and law firms. The different sections are written by experts in each area and jurisdiction. Foyen is the proud co-author of the global legal guide to mining.
Getting the Deal Through is an international publication collaborating with many of the world’s leading lawyers and law firms. The different sections are written by experts in each area and jurisdiction. Foyen is the proud co-author of the global legal guide to mining.
New precedent from the Administrative Court of Appeal in Sundsvall signifies a significant limitation in the application of the concept of “special circumstances” according to Chapter 2, Section 7 of the Minerals Act (1991: 45). According to a judgment handed down by the Administrative Court of Appeal, conditions/circumstances relating to areas in the proximity of those covered by exploration permits cannot alone form the basis for an extension.
Every year, Legal 500 carries out a ranking of the world’s leading lawyers and law firms. The London-based rankings institute is recognized as one of the world’s largest legal guides, the basis of which consists of over 300,000 interviews based exclusively on merit.