Heavy concentration of clean tech manufacturing in a handful of countries presents systemic resilience challenges for global supply chains. Source: IEA Energy Technology Perspectives 2024

Addressing these vulnerabilities will require a multi-pronged strategy combining resource diversification, recycling infrastructure, and material innovation. Governments are beginning to prioritize the development of new supply chains, with the United States’ 2022 Inflation Reduction Act offering tax credits to stimulate domestic production and downstream investment. But supply expansion alone won’t be enough: recycling rates for lithium-ion batteries remain under 5%. Investment in circular economy infrastructure – including new techniques like bioleaching – is critical to scaling battery reuse and reducing pressure on virgin supply. At the same time, engineering innovations offer a third pathway. New cathode chemistries that reduce or eliminate cobalt, as well as sodium-ion batteries, show growing promise. Chinese battery manufacturer CATL recently launched Naxtra, a sodium-ion platform with energy density comparable to conventional lithium-ion designs.

Securing a resilient mineral supply chain isn’t just a resource challenge; it’s a foundation for a stable, sustainable, and equitable clean energy future.