Over the past couple of years, new rare earth plants and initiatives have sprung up as nations across the world look to shift from their dependence on China. Just a few weeks ago, we covered the story of Europe’s first dedicated rare earth facility. Now, another facility is joining the mix to help with the efforts.

All Eyes on Solvay

A chemical group known as Solvay is leading the charge. They plan on supplying the continent with rare earth metals for EVs, wind turbines, and other applications from a refurbished plant located in La, Rochelle, France. This will help consumers find these items on a more regular basis for potentially less money.

 

The plant is the only one in Europe capable of processing both light and heavy rare earth materials on an industrial scale. Leaders hope the plant can start production in early 2025 and be responsible for 30% of Europe’s permanent magnets by 2030. As mentioned, this push comes as the entire continent looks to turn away from its reliance on China for rare earth materials. There is a sense of urgency as well, with demand on pace to triple by 2035.

 

Solvay’s CEO had meetings with leading car manufacturers, turbine makers, and the French government in hopes of getting additional support for their movement. The backing would be a large step as a new law seeks more self-sufficiency for these materials. In total, Europe wants 10% of its annual materials to be mined, 25% of materials to be recycled, and another 40% to be processed locally by 2030. Leaders believe this recent development will make achieving those goals much more realistic.

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