French Government Announces Major Investment in Lithium Refinery at Le Havre Port
On Thursday, November 7, the French government is set to announce the development of a significant industrial project at the port of Le Havre (Seine-Maritime) as part of the "France 2030 turnkey sites" initiative. This project, dedicated to lithium production, is expected to attract private investments totaling 1.2 billion euros. The initiative will involve the redevelopment of approximately 30 hectares of land at the port.
Luxembourg-based Livista Energy plans to establish a lithium refinery on a 30-hectare plot, aiming to produce battery-grade lithium and create 300 direct jobs. This project adds to the growing list of lithium production initiatives in France, including efforts from companies such as Ensorcia and Viridian Lithium. However, none of these planned projects have yet made firm investment decisions.
The lithium refinery is anticipated to begin operations between 2026 and 2029. The project will benefit from government support to expedite administrative procedures, while Haropa Port, which manages the Port of Le Havre, will oversee site development and connections to public infrastructure. Additionally, the lithium refinery will have direct access to the Grand Canal du Havre, which leads to the English Channel. The land designated for this project is part of approximately 50 "turnkey" industrial sites announced in April by the previous government.
