Elkem reaches mining expansion agreement with reindeer district
Elkem has reached an agreement with reindeer grazing district 7 (Rákkonjárga) which enables the expansion of Elkem’s mining operations in Tana, Norway, one of the world’s largest quartzite mines and a key source of raw materials for the green transition. The expansion of this mine enables a future increase of reserves for Elkem of approximately 15 years.
The two parties have reached an agreement after demanding negotiations. Elkem can now begin to expand its operational area. The parties have also agreed on mitigating measures to ensure coexistence and a sustainable future development of both parties’ activities.
“We are pleased to have reached an agreement with Rákkonjárga. Through this agreement, we demonstrate that it is possible to further develop the sustainable production of advanced materials for the green transition, through agreements with other stakeholders. This agreement has been achieved through a close and thorough dialogue, which we will also maintain going forward,” says Elkem’s CEO, Helge Aasen.
“We have experienced the negotiations as very demanding. We are giving away parts of our area which we would prefer to keep. This agreement shows that we are willing to make compromises when we can, but that this is always demanding. There will also be cases where we cannot accept an agreement in order to protect our reindeer herding activities for the future,” says the head of Rákkonjárga, Magne Andersen.
Elkem has been operating the Tana mine since 1983. It currently provides around 50 local jobs, enabling an annual production capacity of approximately 1 million tonnes (mt) of quartzite per year.
Elkem’s mining operations in Tana supply quartzite to Elkem and other industrial users for the production of silicon-, aluminum- and ferrosilicon alloys. These are critical raw materials to manufacture a wide range of products which are necessary for the digital and green transitions, such as cell phones and electric vehicles.
For further information, please contact:
Odd-Geir Lyngstad
VP Finance & Investor Relations
Tel: +47 976 72 806
Email: odd-geir.lyngstad@elkem.com
Fredrik Norman
VP Corporate Communications & Public Affairs
Tel: +47 918 66 567
E-mail: fredrik.norman@elkem.com
About Elkem
Elkem is one of the world's leading providers of advanced silicon-based materials shaping a better and more sustainable future. The company develops silicones, silicon products and carbon solutions by combining natural raw materials, renewable energy and human ingenuity. Elkem helps its customers create and improve essential innovations like electric mobility, digital communications, health and personal care as well as smarter and more sustainable cities. With a strong track record since 1904, its global team of more than 7,300 people has a joint commitment to stakeholders: Delivering your potential. In 2022, Elkem achieved an operating income of NOK 45.9 billion and CDP ratings of A- on climate and forest. Elkem is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange (ticker: ELK), where the company is also included in the ESG Index. www.elkem.com
