NORWAY Trends and Developments Contributed by: Mona Søyland and Øystein Nore Nyhus, Simonsen Vogt Wiig
tion rights ( undersøkelsesretter ) have increased from 400 to 1,200 from 2022 to 2024. Data from the DMF shows a threefold increase in explora - tion expenditures between 2020 and 2022. In addition, the number of extraction rights have increased, and last year 32 new extraction rights were granted, up from six in 2023. Concession and Regulatory Framework The Norwegian government maintains a con - cession system to manage and regulate mining activities. This framework is designed to bal - ance economic development with environmental protection and the interests of local communi - ties. Under current legislation, companies must obtain a concession to explore and extract min - erals. Concessions are granted based on factors such as economic feasibility, the environmental impact, and local community benefits. The regulatory framework also ensures public participation in decision-making processes. Local municipalities have substantial influence, and consent from affected communities is often a prerequisite for approval, as a mining project requires a municipal land use plan. Indigenous rights, particularly those of the Sámi people, are an essential consideration, especially in north - ern Norway, where mining projects often over - lap with reindeer herding areas. Additionally, the framework incorporates strict requirements for environmental restoration and ongoing monitor - ing of mining operations to ensure compliance with sustainability goals. Concessions are only granted to entities reg - istered in the Norwegian Register of Business. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership. Environmental Considerations Sustainability and environmental stewardship are critical concerns in Norwegian mining. Modern
mining operations must address challenges such as managing waste, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and mitigating impacts on biodiversity. Tailings and waste management is a significant issue. The disposal of mining waste in water and fjords has been a contentious topic, with environmental groups advocating for alternative solutions. However, there is no formal prohibition on disposing of mining waste in water and fjords. Minerals for the Green Transition Norway’s mining sector is poised to play a piv - otal role in the green transition. Minerals like cobalt, copper, nickel, and rare earth elements are essential for renewable energy technologies, electric vehicles, and energy storage systems. The government has identified mining as a stra - tegic industry to support the global shift to sus - tainable energy sources. The Fen Complex in Telemark is a prime example of this potential. This geological formation con - tains Europe’s largest reserves of rare earth ele - ments and is considered one of Europe’s most promising sites for rare earth elements extrac - tion. Exploration and development activities are currently underway, with the goal of establishing Norway as a key supplier of critical minerals to European markets. The Norwegian Mineral Strategy of 2023 In 2023, the Norwegian government launched a new mineral strategy to position the country as a leader in sustainable mineral extraction. The strategy emphasises the importance of critical minerals for the green transition and outlines measures to enhance the competitiveness and environmental performance of the mining sector. Key initiatives include: • streamlining the concession process;
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