Reviewing the material and metal security of low-carbon energy transitions. (May 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lee, J.; Bazilian, M.; Sovacool, B.; Hund, K.; Jowitt, S.M.; Nguyen, T.P.; Månberger, A.; Kah, M.; Greene, S.; Galeazzi, C.; Awuah-Offei, K.; Moats, M.; Tilton, J.; Kukoda, S.
• Is Part Of: Renewable & sustainable energy reviews. Volume 124(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-05
• Subjects: Energy transitions -- Critical materials -- Critical resources; EVs electric vehicles -- PV photovoltaic -- LIB lithium-ion batteries -- LCO lithium cobalt oxide -- NCM nickel cobalt manganese -- LFP lithium iron phosphate -- REE rare earth elements -- c-SI crystalline silicon -- CIGS copper indium gallium selenide -- CdTe cadmium telluride -- DSSC dye sensitive solar cells -- PMG permanent magnet generator -- CSP concentrated solar power -- GW gigawatt -- DRC Democratic Republic of the Congo -- BRI Belt and Road Initiative -- NDC nationally determined contribution -- STRADE Strategic Dialogue on Sustainable Raw Materials -- SOE state owned enterprises -- HREE heavy rare earth elements -- LREE light rare earth elements -- PGM platinum group metals -- RGI resource governance index -- NRGI Natural Resource Governance Institute -- IISD International Institute for Sustainable Development -- ASM artisanal or small scale mining -- ILO International Labor Organization -- Ton 2000 pounds; Renewable energy sources -- Periodicals; Power resources -- Periodicals; Énergies renouvelables -- Périodiques; Ressources énergétiques -- Périodiques; 333.794
• DOI: 10.1016/j.rser.2020.109789
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1364-0321

Abstract

Abstract: The global transition to a low-carbon economy will involve changes in material markets and supply chains on a hitherto unknown scale and scope. With these changes come numerous challenges and opportunities related to supply chain security and sustainability. To help support decision-making as well as future research, this study employs a problem-oriented perspective while reviewing academic publications, technical reports, legal documents, and published industry data to highlight the increasingly interconnected nature of material needs and geopolitical change. The paper considers a broad set of issues including technologies, material supplies, investment strategies, communal concerns, innovations, modeling considerations, and policy trends to help contextualize policy decisions and regulatory responses. Policy options are outlined for each topical section, as well as areas for further research. Together, these recommendations serve to help guide the complex, interdisciplinary approach to materials required for a low-carbon transition.