Critical materials such as copper, lithium, cobalt, and steel are fundamental components embedded throughout the electricity infrastructure, from generation to distribution. The journey these materials take from extraction through manufacturing and final assembly is complex and often poorly documented, involving multiple countries and industries. Understanding these supply chains has become increasingly important as nations work to meet growing energy demands and ensure reliable grid operations.
Researchers at the National Laboratory of the Rockies have developed the RING Model, an analytical tool designed to map and simulate integrated supply chains for energy sector technologies. The model traces materials through every stage of their lifecycle, from mining and refining through component manufacturing to finished technology deployment. By modeling multiple supply chains simultaneously, the tool can identify interactions between different technology sectors and reveal where competition for shared materials might create bottlenecks or vulnerabilities.
The RING Model allows analysts to conduct scenario-based evaluations of potential disruptions and opportunities. Researchers can simulate the effects of supply disruptions, such as foreign suppliers restricting trade, and assess the benefits of shifting to domestically sourced alternatives. A current Department of Energy-sponsored study applies the model to transmission infrastructure, translating future grid buildout needs into specific material and manufacturing requirements.
Copper has emerged as a particularly significant concern in integrated supply chain analysis. While individual technology sectors appear to have sufficient copper supplies, analyzing copper demand across batteries, transformers, and other applications together reveals a potential global supply deficit of approximately 30% by 2035. Addressing this challenge requires exploring strategies including increased domestic extraction, material recovery from alternative sources, and more strategic mineral usage patterns.
Beyond technical analysis, supply chain security also depends on social and regulatory factors. Local community acceptance of mining projects significantly influences project timelines, and permitting procedures add additional delays. The laboratory operates programs including Energy to Communities to provide technical assistance to communities evaluating energy projects, positioning itself as an objective information source in these discussions.