Anna lives in Oviksbygden, located within one of Sweden's largest uranium deposits. Australian mining company Aura Energy has applied for permits to extract vanadium in the Jämtland mountains. The company also wants to mine uranium and has maintained ongoing contact with the Swedish government about lifting the uranium mining ban. Aura Energy could become the first company approved for modern uranium mining in Sweden, potentially right near Anna's farm.
Massive opposition exists in the area against the mining plans. Some residents support the mine but hesitate to express their views publicly. While mining companies have met with government representatives, local politicians around Storsjön lake have invited Climate Minister Romina Pourmokhtari and Energy Minister Ebba Busch to visit the potential mining area.
Busch visited Östersund for a few hours in October. Pourmokhtari responded that local residents have been heard and that municipalities serve as referral bodies. Therese Kärngard, municipal councilor in Berg Municipality, stated that responsible ministers should have met with local residents earlier in the process.
Anna Norlén stands on her farm pointing out where the open-pit mine could be located. The ground contains alum shale bearing vanadium and uranium. Extraction from alum shale raises environmental concerns due to proven environmental risks.
When asked about the need for energy metals found in devices like mobile phones, Anna responded that society should work smarter rather than opening new mines. She believes transition means living differently rather than finding new ways to maintain current consumption patterns.
Aura Energy has advanced furthest with mining plans in Jämtland County through its subsidiary Vanadis Battery Metals. The company primarily seeks permission to mine vanadium and several other energy metals. Company officials have clearly stated they want to mine uranium if the ban lifts, potentially increasing revenues by 14 percent.
Aura Energy previously had uranium mining plans that failed when Sweden implemented the uranium mining ban in 2018. The company attempted to sue the Swedish state for 17 billion kronor in compensation for lost mining opportunities but received nothing. The company then shifted focus to vanadium mining.
When the current government announced intentions to permit uranium mining again, Aura Energy revived its uranium extraction hopes. The company also has advanced uranium mining plans in Africa.
Canadian company District Metals holds the largest claimed areas in Jämtland County and focuses on uranium deposits. The exploration company currently maps metal and mineral deposits in the region. Their aerial surveys indicate uranium deposits may be substantially larger than previously known.
Applications for exploration permits in Jämtland County have increased ahead of parliament's decision about lifting the uranium mining ban. The situation highlights Sweden's challenging balance between green transition mineral needs and local environmental concerns.
Local residents face uncertain futures as international mining companies pursue Sweden's mineral resources while government ministers weigh economic benefits against community impacts.