Regulation and permits
Norway has significant mineral resources and the potential to become an important supplier to European value chains. At the same time, mineral extraction is capital-intensive and operates within a complex regulatory framework – political decisions, environmental considerations and permitting processes have a major impact on whether projects can move forward.
Mineral extraction is subject to a comprehensive and fragmented regulatory framework: key legislation includes the Minerals Act, the Planning and Building Act, the Pollution Control Act and the Nature Diversity Act. The processes for exploration, concessions, permits and operations involve multiple authorities. The ongoing revision of the Minerals Act, the government’s mineral strategy and the EU’s Critical Raw Materials Act will have significant implications for the industry.
We provide advice at all stages of a mineral extraction project: clarification of legal rights, concessions, dialogue with authorities and navigating regulatory requirements, as well as in connection with the purchase, sale and financing of projects.
Project development and value chain
Mineral projects require close interaction between technology, capital, regulatory processes and commercial considerations. We cover the entire process – from exploration and development to extraction, processing and export. Our lawyers assist with structuring and execution of projects: contracts, collaboration models, joint ventures, infrastructure and supply chains.
Transactions and financing
Increased demand for critical minerals, combined with regulatory and political risk, is driving the need for capital, partnerships and structural changes in the industry. We have experience with the purchase and sale of mineral projects, investments, joint ventures, strategic collaborations and financing. Our assistance covers due diligence, structuring, regulatory assessments, ownership control and public approvals. We also advise on taxes and duties, royalties and international tax structures.
Sustainability and social considerations
Sustainable solutions are essential for realising mineral projects. Extraction must be carried out in a way that safeguards nature, the environment and local communities, while the projects must also be economically viable. We advise on environmental requirements, ESG, sustainable value chains and corporate social responsibility, as well as employment law issues and HSE requirements that are particularly relevant for mining operations.
Seabed minerals and new regulatory frameworks
Extraction of mineral resources from the seabed is a new and controversial area with significant potential. At the same time, it raises complex questions related to the environment, technology and regulation. We follow developments closely and advise stakeholders in assessing the legal and commercial frameworks for projects both on land and at sea.
Export control and geopolitics
Increased geopolitical tension and focus on supply security have made export control and sanctions regulations increasingly important for the mineral industry. Critical minerals are subject to a complex regime of national and international rules that affect trade, ownership and the choice of partners. We assist with assessments of export control rules, sanctions risk and compliance requirements related to mineral projects.
Disputes and regulatory proceedings
Mineral projects can give rise to complex disputes related to permits, contracts, environmental issues and public decisions. We assist in disputes, regulatory proceedings and cases that require an understanding of both the regulatory framework and the practical conditions in the industry.
Industry understanding and strategic advisory
Mineral extraction takes place at the intersection of politics, capital, technology and society. Successful implementation requires advice based on a holistic understanding and understands the interplay between these factors.
With experience from major industrial and infrastructure projects, regulatory processes and transactions, we provide advice that solves specific issues and facilitates long-term value creation.
