August 29, 2020 – Saskatchewan announced $31 million in funding for a Rare Earth Processing Facility in the province, which will be owned and operated by the Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC).

Global demand for rare earth elements (REEs) will increase significantly in the coming decade, says the government, as demand for electric vehicles, renewable power generation and all forms of electronics increases.

The facility will be the first of its kind in Canada, says the province, and will begin to establish an REE supply chain in Saskatchewan, forming an industry model for future commercial REE resource expansion in the province.

“Saskatchewan has a globally recognized mining industry, workforce and culture with local companies already beginning to explore REE deposits both in Saskatchewan, and in surrounding provinces and territories,” said Minister Responsible for SRC, Jeremy Harrison. “This facility will allow the REE industry to grow and create both immediate and long-term jobs.”

The facility is expected to be fully operational in late 2022, with construction beginning this fall.