The politics of developing alternative sources of energy extend far beyond the borders of the United States. Other players who affect technology in indirect ways may also set the course for the path of clean energy. These facts show the complexity of fulfilling the obligations to embrace wind power, solar power and other energy sources.
A report by the European Commission Joint Research Centre revealed some sobering information regarding the state of low-carbon energy development. The commission identified five rare earth metals it considers at risk of shortage. The problem is that alternative sources of energy require the materials identified, with no clear substitutes available.
While a common fear existed with oil supply, shortages of rare earth metals may pose a greater risk. Global demand and geopolitical issues complicate the move toward clean energy. China controls the vast majority of global production of rare earth metals, adding another dimension to alternative energy technology. Limited supply adds further complications and adds an unexpected political twist.
The politics do not stop at supply. Rare earth elements are used in a variety of technologies, including rechargeable batteries, mobile phones and laptop computers. They are also in hybrid cars. As these markets grow, the demand will only increase and perhaps create a technological tug-of-war. Then, there is the environmental question to consider.
Production of rare earth elements uses methods that can negatively affect the environment. Mining and refining of the materials carries the risk of unleashing radioactive waste and other toxins. It is a cruel irony that the means to deploying clean energy means harming the environment to do so.
All these factors add up to the fact that alternative energy technology is not a clear-cut solution. It isn’t just a matter of developing the science behind it. Deployment walks a fine line in the geopolitical and economic arenas. This information makes the findings of the Joint Research Centre report that much more compelling.
In addition to identifying the problems, the report also offered possible solutions and directions for technology. The politics of alternative energy show that approaches to deploy low-carbon energy require a global approach. It is multifaceted problem, with an equally complex solution.
