A fundamental choice for Critical Minerals development: "Fascism or radical democracy?"

The global demand for critical minerals like lithium and copper is surging, but how we attempt to quickly extract them, argues Katherine Teh , Executive Chairman of Spektrum Development , presents a fundamental choice: embrace authoritarian tactics that disregard communities or pursue transparent, consent-based development. In this pivotal moment, the stakes are high-ranging, from environmental destruction to lost economic potential. Which path should be chosen? Katherine Teh of Spektrum Development addressing the 2024 ACFID Conference WE ARE AT a crossroads in the energy transition. The gap between what the mining industry promises and what it delivers has been widening, creating not only delays but the potential for significant socio-economic and environmental risks. As the demand for critical minerals like copper, graphite, and lithium increases, we’re facing mounting challenges in securing these resources quickly enough to support the transition to renewable energy. The Problem...

UAE's Middle East Coal to invest $5.2 billion in Indonesia's East Kalimantan

The United Arab Emirate's Middle East Coal (MEC) plans to invest $5.2 billion in mining and energy infrastructure in Indonesia's East Kalimantan province including a 1,400 MW coal-fired power plant, a 140-km railway and an  alumina smelter.

Gita Wirjawa, head of BKPM, Indonesia's investment agency, confirmed the plans in a mobile phone text message to Reuters, adding: "as for the railway project, the land clearing has been done in the past months and the first stone will be laid in March."

MEC from the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah is a joint venture between UAE investment fund RAK Minerals and Metals Investments (RMMI) and UAE- based mining company Trimex.