Story perspectives

Finland Launches First Full Lithium Cycle, Supplies 10% Europe

4/29/2026

Summary

Story summary

Finland becomes the first European nation to host a lithium production cycle, linking a mine to a nearby refinery.
Keliber Oy is building the Syväjärvi mine, concentrator and refinery in Kaustinen, with expected start within two years.
Sibanye-Stillwater holds an 80% stake in Keliber.
The European Investment Bank provides €150 million toward the €783 million project.
The refinery aims to produce about 15,000 tonnes of battery-grade lithium hydroxide annually, 10% of Europe’s demand.

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Story summary

Finland becomes the first European nation to host a lithium production cycle, linking a mine to a nearby refinery.
Keliber Oy is building the Syväjärvi mine, concentrator and refinery in Kaustinen, with expected start within two years.
Sibanye-Stillwater holds an 80% stake in Keliber.
The European Investment Bank provides €150 million toward the €783 million project.
The refinery aims to produce about 15,000 tonnes of battery-grade lithium hydroxide annually, 10% of Europe’s demand.