MS#07.2 Rare Earth Elements in Offshore Wind and Hydrogen Production– Present status and future trends

A. NEJAD¹, J. HELSEN², M. KLOEPZIG³
¹ NTNU|² OWI-Lab, Vrije Universiteit Brussel|³ Siemens

Electrical conversion, energy systems and grid integration

The share of offshore wind  in total wind deployment in Europe and around the world is seen  to grow considerably, and particularly, larger wind turbines will accelerate annual capacities. Offshore wind has emerged as a major force in driving demand for the Rare Earth Elements (REE). REE are essential for permanent magnets used in offshore wind turbine generators, and therefore vital enablers for  the green energy transition. Hydrogen electrolysers and green hydrogen require also critical minerals and REE usage depending on the technology type.  
However, the REE market is among the most concentrated green energy transition metal markets. Moreover, the arena of REE major players is definitely outside of Europe. The global shift to a clean energy is seen to drive a massive increase of the requirements of REE, and the offshore wind energy is promising to become among the leading REE consumers. According to various experts’ scenarios and studies, on short and long term basis, the reduction of REE, recycling, developing REE mining and production, and  unlocking new supply need to be developed and given priority in Europe if reduction of costs and mitigation of pressure on REE supply chain is aimed for.  Without no doubt, the REE are essential materials for the European economy and its green political agenda.
This present symposium targets to attract contributors and audience with a keen interest in different areas linked with usage and reduction of REE in offshore wind, particularly generator and REE, technology innovation along value chain, green hydrogen and REE usage,  manufactures’ position and REE usage, recycle technologies, and present and future strategies.