Is the future development of wind energy compromised by the availability of raw materials?

Gonzalez, E and Ortego, A and Topham, E and Valero, A (2018) Is the future development of wind energy compromised by the availability of raw materials? In: WindEurope Conference & Exhibition 2018, 2018-09-25 - 2018-09-28.

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Abstract

The installation of new electrical power plants from renewable sources is key inthe transition towards a low-carbon economy. An important amount of diverse raw materials isrequired for this development. Due to its current prominence among renewable energy sources,we assess the expected development of wind energy towards the availability of the required rawmaterials up to 2050. Wind power is found to be in a favourable position, over solar thermaland photovoltaic power. Among the two main wind turbine technologies, the installation ofdirect drive turbines with permanent magnets faces a more challenging future. Recycling is animportant strategy to simultaneously reduce risks and costs.

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