The planned lithium mining in Zinnwald (Osterzgebirge) is feasible according to a preliminary study. The project is economically, geologically and ecologically feasible, said Marko Uhlig, Managing Director of Zinnwald Lithium GmbH, summarizing the results of the investigations. The development of the deposit is estimated at one billion euros.
Production targeted for 2030
If everything goes according to plan, construction of the mine could begin in 2028 and production could start two years later, emphasized Uhlig. The company anticipates up to 1,200 direct and indirect jobs, including 300 to 400 in the mine and processing. There are currently 15 permanent employees.
According to Uhlig, the size of the deposit ensures stable production volumes. If 1.6 million tons of ore are extracted per year in the first phase, the mine could be operated for a good 70 years. This would result in the production of 18,000 tons of battery-grade lithium hydroxide per year. If production is expanded to 35,000 tons, the operating life would be 45 years.
