Project progress
Latest news about the different aspects of the EMME project development
Administrative permits and approvals
The EMME project requires several prior administrative approvals, including the amendment to bring the local urban plan into compliance (MECDU), the building permits for the municipalities of Blanquefort and Parempuyre, and the environmental permit.
The review conducted by the relevant state departments and authorities took place in 2025, as did the public inquiry which resulted in an “unconditional favourable” opinion from the Inquiry Commission.
All the administrative approvals required for the project - the MECDU, the building permits and the environmental permit - were granted between May and July 2026.
Development combining rigour, control, innovation and agility
The project is being developed in accordance with the international Front-End Loading (FEL) methodology, which structures its progress into successive stages, each validated at key decision gates.
While adhering to this rigorous framework, the teams have continuously improved the process, particularly in the areas of safety, environmental protection and competitiveness. Some innovations have led to patent applications.
With the process now optimised, the engineering teams are finalising the detailed design of the industrial equipment and preparing for the construction phase with their partner companies.
The objective is to have a fully operational, efficient and competitive industrial facility in place by early 2029, meeting all technical, economic and regulatory requirements.
Further information is available in the “News” section above.
Project high-level timeline
A project rooted in the local community
In addition to contributing to France’s reindustrialisation and energy sovereignty objectives, the EMME project will bring significant benefits to the local area through the jobs it creates, the development of the regional battery industry and the growth of inland waterway transport.
It will also contribute to a number of practical local initiatives. For example, discussions are under way with the relevant local stakeholders regarding the maintenance of the Jalles waterways near the site, with the aim to enhance the area’s hydraulic and ecological functions. Discussions are also taking place regarding the introduction of a river shuttle service, which would benefit both the plant’s employees and local residents.
Ongoing dialogue with stakeholders
Since the project was launched, the EMME team has been committed to informing all stakeholders through a range of initiatives, including public consultations, steering committees, meetings with local associations and information sessions in Parempuyre.
At the end of 2024, EMME organised an initial public consultation. This was followed in 2025 by a “consultation préalable” conducted with the French National Commission for Public Debate, and subsequently by a “consultation continue”.
The discussions have gone beyond information-sharing and have helped shape some aspects of the project.
The resulting developments, together with the related environmental commitments, were presented to the public and published on the consultation website. The main technical documents presented are also available below.
In keeping with its commitment to transparency and dialogue, EMME will continue engaging with stakeholders throughout the construction phase.
Further information is available in the “News” section above.
