Asked about it, however, JX Nippon Mining — the metal unit of JXTG Holdings — declined to comment, adding it was not something that has already been decided.
The company said the granting of the patent comes at a time of surging demand for lithium-ion batteries as part of the trend towards ‘the electrification of everything.'
Decision doesn't determine the final faith of the long-delayed and polemic project, as the case has been sent back to the Environmental Court for review by a different panel of judges, a process that could last several months.