Critical Minerals and the U.S. Clean Energy Transition

Abstract

Critical minerals are key components in a range of products and equipment, from consumer electronics and military technology to solar panels and electric vehicle batteries. Their unique chemical properties make them particularly suitable for energy technologies and irreplaceable for certain purposes. Pursuant to the Energy Act of 2020 (P.L. 116–260), the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) publishes a revised list of critical minerals every three years. The most recent list, published in 2022, categorizes 50 minerals as critical. For clarity and consistency, this issue brief will use the Energy Act definition of critical minerals, which encompasses both minerals and materials