All Things Policy An Explainer on Critical Minerals
Aug 1, 2025
Rishabh Jain, who leads the Technology Futures programme at the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW), joins the conversation to dissect critical minerals. He explains their strategic importance amid global tensions, particularly regarding China’s control over processing. Jain discusses India’s critical mineral inventory, the role of electric vehicles in reducing emissions, and the hurdles in battery manufacturing. He emphasizes the urgent need for recycling initiatives and policies to support local production as India navigates its clean energy transition.
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Assessing Critical Minerals
- Critical minerals are identified based on economic importance and supply risk, varying by country and industry needs.
- India's critical mineral list has evolved, showing the need for periodic reassessment based on supply and demand dynamics.
Critical Minerals for Clean Energy
- Clean energy technologies like solar, batteries, and wind turbines require multiple critical minerals, many of which have supply challenges.
- Demand for these minerals will grow exponentially with energy transition goals, necessitating new mining, recycling, and alternatives.
EVs Aid Emission Reduction
- Electric vehicles can reduce emissions even when charged from coal-dominated grids if used for sufficient kilometers.
- India's grid is becoming cleaner, which will lower EV emissions over time, aiding decarbonization efforts.