Use of Rare Earth Metals in Renewable Energy: Opportunities and Risks

Abstract

The results of research on the use of rare earth metals for the development of a low-carbon economy are presented. Directions for the use of rare earth metals for the development of solar and wind energy are shown. Characteristics are given and information is given on the volumes of extraction of rare earth metals in the context of the main countries. The opportunities associated with the use of rare earth metals for the development of renewable energy in the context of low-carbon development are identified, as well as the environmental and social risks associated with the extraction and transportation of ore to processing plants. Using the example of the development of the Tomtor rare earth metal deposit in the Arctic zone of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia).