A historic mining region in the Monts du Lyonnais, west of Lyon, is once again drawing attention as France seeks to secure vital minerals critical to the global energy transition. The Compagnie d’exploration de la Brévenne (CEB), based in Lorraine, has obtained an exclusive permit to explore 93 square kilometers of this mineral-rich region. The area, which includes 12 communes, is historically significant as one of France’s oldest copper mining hubs, with operations dating back to the Middle Ages. The pyrite mines of Sain-Bel, closed since 1972, could now be poised for revival as the government prioritizes reducing reliance on imported raw materials.
This renewed interest stems from the rising demand for strategic metals like copper and zinc, essential for renewable energy systems, electrification, and battery technologies. Copper is indispensable for solar panels, wind turbines, and electric vehicles, while zinc plays a critical role in corrosion protection and energy storage solutions. Thierry Padilla, mayor of Chessy-les-Mines, voiced cautious optimism about the exploration project but underscored the need for safeguards to prevent environmental degradation and disruptions to local communities.
The exploration effort aligns with France’s broader strategy to bolster domestic production of key resources amid mounting concerns over global supply chain vulnerabilities. While the potential discovery of new deposits could bring economic benefits, local residents remain wary of the environmental toll that mining activities could exact. The project’s outcome could signal whether the nation is prepared to balance its green ambitions with the complexities of resource extraction. 
