On Wednesday, invited guests and members of the media witnessed a historic event from a distance in freezing weather, as the first spodumene veins were explosively detached from the rock at the Syväjärvi open pit mine in Kaustinen. These rock fragments will eventually be converted into Europe’s first battery-grade lithium chemicals, marking a pivotal moment for the region's mining sector. CEO Hannu Hautala expressed joy at the successful detonation, calling it a celebration day for the company. The historical significance of this event is underscored by the long and challenging journey that Keliber has undertaken to reach this milestone, with its founding dating back 25 years. The mining area spans the municipalities of Kaustinen and the city of Kokkola, with a portion extending into the municipality of Kruunupyy. While often referred to as the Kaustinen mine, the Syväjärvi quarry is technically located in Kokkola. In the early days of the company, discussions about lithium usage were primarily focused on mobile phones and other small devices. However, the customer base has now shifted significantly, especially towards the European automotive industry, which increasingly demands battery technology for electric vehicles. This development not only enhances local economic activity but also positions Finland as a key player in the European green energy transition.