Sweco will partner with Keliber on the development plans for lithium mine sites and a concentrator plant in Kaustinen, Kokkola and Kruunupyy, and a lithium hydroxide plant in Kokkola.

Keliber said the construction phase of the project is expected to start in 2022, with first production in 2024. 

The EPCM  appointment comes two weeks after Keliber and Sibanye-Stillwater Limited entered into an investment agreement for an initial phased equity investment of €30 million for approximately 30% shareholding in Keliber.

Existing shareholders were also offered to subscribe for shares for up to €10 million on the same terms as the investment from Sibanye-Stillwater, securing Keliber bridge financing of in total €40 million.

"Thanks to an experienced EPCM partner as well as to the recently announced bridge financing of €40 million, we are able to advance the lithium project as planned," said Hannu Hautala, chief executive of Keliber.

Keliber aims to be the first European company producing sustainable, battery-grade lithium hydroxide from its own ore in 2024.

"It's a highly important assignment for us at Sweco to partner with Keliber in this large-scale battery industry project. We've already been cooperating for several years and Sweco has supported Keliber in being at the forefront of developing chemicals for batteries. This project supports the transformation towards sustainable transportation, and represents Nordic expertise at its best", said Erik Skogström, managing director of Sweco Industry.