Assessment of lithium criticality in the global energy transition and addressing policy gaps in transportation

Peter Greim, A. A. Solomon () and Christian Breyer
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Peter Greim: University of Augsburg
A. A. Solomon: LUT University
Christian Breyer: LUT University

Nature Communications, 2020, vol. 11, issue 1, 1-11

Abstract: Abstract The forthcoming global energy transition requires a shift to new and renewable technologies, which increase the demand for related materials. This study investigates the long-term availability of lithium (Li) in the event of significant demand growth of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries for supplying the power and transport sectors with very-high shares of renewable energy. A comprehensive assessment that uses 18 scenarios, created by combining 8 demand related variations with 4 supply conditions, were performed. Here this study shows that Li is critical to achieve a sustainable energy transition. The achievement of a balanced Li supply and demand throughout this century depends on the presence of well-established recycling systems, achievement of vehicle-to-grid integration, and realisation of transportation services with lower Li intensity. As a result, it is very important to achieve a concerted global effort to enforce a mix of policy goals identified in this study.

Date: 2020
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-18402-y

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