Strategies for conserving critical raw materials for a sustainable electricity system transition

The project develops strategies to reduce the need for critical raw materials in the energy transition. By analyzing domestic access to CRMs and potentials for recycling and other circular strategies the project build knowledge for a more sustainable and equitable electrification in Sweden and the EU.

The transition to a fossil-free energy system requires large quantities of critical raw materials, while supply is limited and often concentrated in a few regions. The project aims to identify strategies that reduce dependence on these resources and strengthen the conditions for a resource-efficient and equitable energy transition

The work combines material flow analysis, scenario modelling, and socio-economic analysis. The project maps the availability of secondary material flows, analyses the potential for recycling and circular strategies, and assesses future demand under different development scenarios. It also evaluates how different principles for fair resource allocation influence Sweden’s and the EU’s use of critical raw materials.

In addition, the project identifies barriers and enabling factors for implementing these strategies, including technological, economic, and policy-related aspects. The results will be used to develop concrete policy recommendations and strategic guidance for decision-makers and industry.

IVL leads the project in close collaboration with Chalmers University of Technology and a broad reference group of stakeholders from government, industry, and civil society, ensuring high relevance and practical usability.

The project contributes to reduced resource use, increased circularity, and a more equitable global distribution of resources, in line with several of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.