A structured, step-by-step project development approach
A continuously optimised process
Throughout its development, the EMME industrial process has been continuously refined to improve its performance, strengthen risk management and reduce its environmental footprint.
Among the most significant improvements is the complete elimination of sulphur dioxide (SO₂) from the process. The process has also been adapted to enable the use of raw materials recovered from end-of-life battery recycling from the very start of plant operations.
Several of the innovations developed as part of the EMME project are currently the subject of intellectual property protection.
Designing a resilient facility
Risk management—and flood resilience in particular—has been a key focus throughout the engineering studies.
Extensive hydraulic modelling, carried out notably by engineering consultancy Artelia, enabled the project team to design an earthworks profile that protects the site without increasing flood risk for neighbouring areas.
The selected design protects the facility against a 100-year flood event, combined with an additional 1.2 metres of sea-level rise at Le Verdon-sur-Mer. This design scenario exceeds the requirements of the Flood Risk Prevention Plan (PPRI) and is consistent with the IPCC's most pessimistic climate change scenario for 2150.
The proposed solution was independently reviewed by a specialist engineering consultancy based in the Netherlands, which confirmed the robustness of the design.
Protecting the natural environment
The project has also evolved to minimise its footprint on the surrounding environment.
The site's overall footprint has been significantly reduced to preserve an ecological corridor crossing the site, avoid mature trees and existing riparian woodlands, and maintain habitats and ecological connectivity for local biodiversity.
Where impacts cannot be avoided, compensatory measures have been defined in accordance with regulatory requirements.
The project design has also been optimised to minimise light and noise emissions.
Optimising Water Resources
Reducing water consumption has been another major focus of the process design.
Operational water demand has been significantly reduced through the implementation of multiple closed-loop water recycling and reuse systems within the process. In addition, rainwater harvesting has been maximised through dedicated storage facilities, further reducing reliance on external water resources.
Preparing for Construction
During the first half of 2026, EMME's engineering teams are finalising the detailed design of the plant's equipment while preparing for the construction phase, in parallel with the ongoing permitting process.
This marks an important transition from project design to construction readiness.
