Strategic mineral resources: Availability and future estimations for the renewable energy sector

To keep the increase in global average temperature below 2 C the use of renewable energy sources is essential. There are various scenarios for this energy transition depending on the amounts and types of renewable energies implemented. However, the material requirements to build new renewable power systems is rarely considered. It is key to understand the impact that the increasing demand of materials for renewable technologies could have on mining and mineral availability and so avoid potential disruptions. Thirteen strategic elements for the renewable energy sector have been analyzed which could generate supply shortages in the medium to long term. From the supply side, production, current resources and data related to future production have been compiled. From the demand side, element use in solar power (PV and CSP), wind energy (on and off-shore), and electric vehicles have been analyzed, as well as the demand of each element in other sectors from 2018 to 2050. Of the 13 elements included in this study, cobalt, lithium, tellurium, and nickel are the most critical of all. Technologies should be more effective in their use. Governments and companies should incorporate policies related to the conservation and extension of its life through recycling and servitisation to avoid resource depletion.

Automated summary

In order to control global temperature rise, the use of renewable energy sources is crucial, yet material requirements for building new renewable power systems need to be considered. Thirteen strategic elements in the renewable energy sector have been analyzed, with cobalt, lithium, tellurium, and nickel identified as the most critical. Effective resource utilization and policies are needed to prevent resource depletion.