Keski-Suomen Betonirakenne Oy has agreed with Sibanye-Stillwater’s Keliber lithium project on several concrete construction contracts for Kaustinen.

These include construction of the Keliber concentrator and water works, as well as foundation work for crushers. A total of around 18,000 cubic metres of concrete will be poured in the area.

Sibanye-Stillwater’s Keliber lithium project will increase the production of integrated lithium hydroxide in Central Ostrobothnia and, in addition to mining, includes a concentrator plant and refinery.

“This is an important project for us in a challenging construction market. And it’s also in line with KSBR’s own values take part in green transition projects,” states Industrial Director Marko Leppänen.

The EUR 500 million green loan financing for the Keliber lithium project is the first critical raw materials mining project in the EU supported by the European Investment Bank. Lithium is a critical raw material for the clean green transition and is needed, e.g., for batteries in electric cars.

Completion in summer 2025

KSBR started work on Päiväneva, on the border of the Kaustinen and Kronoby enclaves, in late spring 2024. The project will be completed in summer 2025.

Work is currently underway on the foundation, flooring and prefabricated elements in the concentrator, water works, grinding mill and accumulation station.

“Crusher construction has also started, or is about to start, in some areas. The concentrator and water works are a little further along – the other contractors are already doing the framework,” says Marko Leppänen.

The Keliber lithium project requires an average of 50 KSBR employees.

“On our busiest days that number can get above 70.”

The collaboration is thriving

KSBR’s Marko Leppänen thanks all stakeholders in the project for their co-operation.

Fimpec is responsible for managing the construction in the area.

“The cooperation has been easy so far, and based on that, we’re looking forward to continuing with and wrapping up the project. We’re a reliable partner for the Keliber lithium project, and we’re moving forward with green transition projects elsewhere in Finland while doing our part to reduce environmental pollution through sensible choices.”

For more information on Sibanye-Stillwater and the Keliber lithium project, see http://www.sibanyestillwater.com/

Photo: Sweco Finland