Critical Minerals, Geopolitics, and the Green Transition

Tomás Domínguez-Iino, Jonathan T. Elliott and Allan Hsiao

No 35654, NBER Working Papers from National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc

Abstract: The green energy transition will be powered by the mining and processing of lithium, nickel, and cobalt, which are critical for the production of advanced batteries. These minerals are concentrated geographically but traded globally, allowing key mining countries to exercise market power through policy intervention. Advanced batteries use multiple minerals in combination, and this joint use creates interdependence across mineral markets. We study the geopolitical implications of these forces and their consequences for green technology adoption worldwide. We quantify supply chain vulnerability, international policy spillovers, and the potential for mineral cartels.

JEL-codes: L13 L72 Q37 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026-08
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