Critical Minerals in the Energy Transition: Risks, Resilience, and Resource Security

Abstract

The transition to low-carbon energy systems has significantly increased the strategic importance of critical minerals. Technologies such as electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and energy storage solutions rely heavily on minerals including lithium, cobalt, nickel, copper, graphite, and rare earth elements. This growing dependence has shifted global energy systems from being fuel-intensive to material-intensive. As a result, the energy transition is now closely linked to the availability, accessibility, and sustainability of critical mineral resources. Despite rapidly rising demand, critical mineral supply chains remain vulnerable. Production and processing are highly concentrated in a limited number of countries, creating systemic risks related to supply disruptions, geopolitical tensions, and market volatility. Factors such as resource nationalism, trade restrictions, and strategic competition further intensify these risks. In addition, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) challenges associated with mining and processing activities pose constraints on sustainable supply expansion. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the risks and resilience of critical mineral supply systems within the context of the energy transition. It highlights key vulnerabilities across the value chain and examines the role of geopolitical dynamics in shaping resource security. The study also evaluates strategic pathways to enhance resilience, including supply diversification, recycling and circular economy approaches, technological innovation, and international cooperation. The findings emphasize that achieving long-term resource security requires an integrated and balanced approach that aligns economic, environmental, and geopolitical considerations. Strengthening resilient and sustainable critical mineral supply chains will be essential for ensuring a secure, equitable, and efficient global energy transition.