The Suhanko Project should be the next mining operation to be implemented in Finland

The Suhanko project has been under development over a long period of time. Currently the mine is progressing through feasibility studies to implementation with construction work expected by 2024. 

A significant reason for the realisation of the Suhanko mining project is the increasing demand for palladium. The Suhanko platinum group metals deposit is the largest of its kind in Europe, and has been studied closely since the year 2000. There are also other important metals in the Suhanko deposits, including platinum, copper, nickel, cobalt and gold. These other elements are critical for the continued drive towards clean renewable sources of power.

A previous baseline radiological survey, across the entire Suhanko area, of ore, waste rock, soils, vegetation, animals and surface water confirmed there are no indications of uranium that exceed natural background levels. Furthermore, all radioactive element levels do not exceed those found naturally in the environment. (Final STUK report)

The demand for palladium is increased by growing concerns about the harmful effects on health and the environment caused by exhaust emissions from vehicles, which have led to tighter emission regulations globally. Car manufacturers have answered these demands by developing more efficient catalytic converters, which in turn, require increasing quantities of palladium and platinum in them. Furthermore, platinum is an important catalyst for the hydrogen economy, with copper, nickel and cobalt essential for the energy transition as battery metals.

When operational, the mine would employ directly around 400 employees, and it is expected to remain in operation for over 20 years. The construction of the mine should take two to three years, during which period it is expected to generate approximately 1,000 jobs in the area.