Dr Carole Nakhle, CEO of Crystol Energy, is quoted in this article written by Belinda Smart from the New Civil Engineer where she outlines the challenges surrounding onshore wind energy in the United Kingdom.
According to Dr. Nakhle, a key challenge in supporting onshore wind expansion is securing the materials supply chain. “Resource nationalism” poses a significant threat to its future. For instance, China dominates the production and processing of critical minerals essential for onshore wind. This creates vulnerabilities in the supply chain and raises concerns about geopolitical dependencies and market stability.
When a resource becomes valuable and strategic, governments often protect it because of the significant benefits it brings. Dr. Nakhle referred to data from the World Bank and other international organizations, which show that even under peaceful conditions, supply shortages already exist. This situation stresses the need for countries to diversify sourcing strategies and invest in alternative supply chains. Without such actions, the sustainable expansion of wind energy will remain at risk.
Wind Energy Consumption in the United Kingdom
In discussing renewable energy targets, Dr. Nakhle emphasized the importance of shifting the focus from dogmatism to pragmatism. Achieving zero-carbon electricity by 2030 is an ambitious goal that only a few countries are close to reaching. Fewer than ten nations globally are on track to meet this target. This highlights the need for realistic assessments and a deeper analysis of the data to address the challenges associated with meeting such ambitious deadlines.
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“Energy security: Perceptions versus realities“, Dr Carole Nakhle, Jul 2024
“The energy transition and the risk of resource nationalism“, Dr Carole Nakhle, May 2023
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“WEC warned renewables at risk of ‘resource nationalism’ over critical minerals“, Dr Carole Nakhle, Apr 2024
