Strategic projects on critical raw materials gain momentum in second selection round for potential funding and faster permitting

The second call for strategic projects under the Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA) has now closed. The European Commission received more than 160 applications, confirming the continued strong interest in being awarded the ‘strategic project' status. Obtaining strategic project status gives project promoters access to guidance on private and public funding. It also generates greater attention from the financing hub established through the RESource Action Plan, which mobilises resources from EU funds and the European Investment Bank. In addition, obtaining strategic project status is expected to improve overall chances of successful implementation by giving potential off-takers more certainty. Strategic projects located in the EU will further benefit from expedited permitting procedures.

The high number of applications shows the importance of the Critical Raw Materials Act to providing clarity to project promoters, potential investors, industry, and Member States. For industry, these projects will help diversify supply and build up the value chain in line with the objectives of the CRMA, providing, secure access to materials essential for the EU's strategic energy, digital and defence sectors. This is a cornerstone of Europe's economic security and long-term strategic autonomy.

The projects that applied for strategic project status include most of the strategic raw materials identified under the CRMA. Of these, 75 projects could support the battery value chain, 21 focus on rare earth elements for permanent magnets (vital for wind turbines and other renewable applications), while various project applications relate to defence. The Commission received 95 applications from within the EU and 66 from outside the EU, including 40 from countries and overseas countries and territories (OCTs) with which the EU has a strategic partnership on raw materials. All applications will undergo an in-depth assessment supported by independent experts. The Commission will then discuss the results with the Member States before finalising the selection of strategic projects.

In the first strategic project collection launched in August 2024, 170 projects applied for strategic status, with 60 ultimately being selected. The objective of the European Critical Raw Materials Act, which entered into force on 23 May 2024, is to secure a diversified, resilient, and sustainable supply of critical raw materials for EU industry. The first selection round led in 2025 to the designation of 47 strategic projects in the EU and 13 projects in third countries and OCTs. T

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