Critical Mineral Scarcity

Critical minerals are non-fuel minerals essential to U.S. economic and national security, with supply chains vulnerable to disruption. They power modern technologies like electric vehicle batteries, renewable energy systems, defense equipment, and semiconductors.

What Makes a Mineral “Critical”?

The Energy Act of 2020 defines critical minerals as those essential to economic or national security, with vulnerable supply chains and key roles in energy technologies or manufacturing. Agencies like the Department of Interior (2022 list of 50 minerals), Department of Energy (2023 list highlighting 18 key materials for clean energy), and Department of Defense maintain their own lists, updated regularly based on risks and needs.

Key Examples and Uses

Vital materials include lithium and cobalt for batteries, rare earth elements like neodymium for magnets in wind turbines and EVs, graphite for anodes, and platinum for fuel cells. These underpin clean energy transitions and advanced manufacturing.

Addressing Supply Risks

Global supply concentration creates scarcity risks, prompting U.S. strategies to boost domestic production and reduce foreign dependence. Learn about the U.S. strategy to break China’s supply chain dominance and secure these vital resources.