** Shares of Firebird Metals rise as much as 4.8% to A$0.11, their highest level since Sept. 9
** The mineral explorer receives key final energy permit for operation of its battery grade manganese sulphate plant in Jinshi, Hunan Province, China
** Co says all 3 critical permits - safety, environmental and energy - required for operation of plant received
** Stock has fallen 27.6% this year, as of last close
(Reporting by Sherin Sunny in Bengaluru)
((Sherin.Sunny@thomsonreuters.com))