Verde Magnesium low-CO2 magnesium pilot advances EU supply security

Verde Magnesium

Verde Magnesium low-CO2 magnesium pilot delivered 99.9% purity with a 1–3 t CO₂/t footprint. The Verde Magnesium low-CO2 magnesium pilot processed Budureasa brucite and generated valuable by-products. As a result, Verde Magnesium low-CO2 magnesium progress positions Romania in Europe’s strategic metals push.

Pilot results and product qualification

The pilot produced 99.9% magnesium metal from Romanian brucite ore. By-products included Al-Mg spinel and calcium aluminate for steel and refractories. Meanwhile, Verde has begun pre-certification with a tier-one EU auto supplier. Pilot ingots will support downstream qualification across Europe and the US.

Scale-up plan and policy tailwinds

Verde is developing a feasibility study for a 30,000 t/yr mine-smelter. The first step is a 500 t/yr pilot smelter by late-2026 to early-2027. Earlier this year, the EU listed the project as strategic, streamlining permits. Therefore, financing, LCA work, and environmental assessments are underway to de-risk execution.

Europe seeks alternatives to Chinese magnesium dominance. EU production ceased in 2001, creating supply vulnerability and price shocks. However, Verde’s pathway, alongside Bosnia’s MFE Magnesium for Europe, could rebuild regional capacity.

The Metalnomist Commentary

If Verde sustains a 1–3 t CO₂/t profile at scale, EU automakers gain a credible low-carbon source. Certification timelines and power pricing will decide cost competitiveness against Chinese supply.