Expert Exchange Workshop: Closing the Circle – Supply chains and circularity approaches for delivering a decarbonised energy system

Introduction

Central to this effort is the role of supply chains and circularity in energy system planning. Securing resources and strengthening supply chains is fundamental to delivering an optimised, decarbonised energy system. By focusing on resilient and adaptive supply chains, we can secure the necessary resources, thereby supporting the extensive infrastructure development needed for the energy transition.

Delivering the massive energy infrastructure required to meet the Paris Agreement goals is a substantial challenge. We face potential scarcity of resources including qualified personnel, critical raw materials, manufacturing of key components, and financial resources. Therefore, it is crucial to consider how supply chains must adapt and deploy to meet the requirements of tomorrow’s energy system. In this sense, regulatory frameworks play a key role in establishing the governance needed to accelerate the energy transition and to secure the required resources to implement it.

Moreover, incorporating circularity measures to recycle and reuse materials will be essential in mitigating resource constraints. This necessity should be reflected in energy system planning, with clear pathways to secure the needed resources being fundamental.