By 2100, up to 12 minerals — including indium, cadmium, tin, and tellurium — might face shortages, threatening the viability of clean energy technologies like thin-film solar photovoltaics (PV), wind, and nuclear power. Developing regions, such as Africa, Middle East, and South Asia, could face deficits of up to 24 minerals, deepening global inequalities in climate action. These shortages arise from the rapidly growing demand for low-carbon technologies. A balanced decarbonization approach that integrates technological innovation, resources security, and regional equity is needed.
These insights into the energy supply sector highlight the broader complexity of low-carbon transitions. As global climate ambitions intensify, ensuring the availability and equitable distribution of these minerals will become crucial. A diversified technology mix, strong global cooperation, and transformative innovation will be essential to meet climate goals through energy transition without running into resource bottlenecks.