German media: Reduce reliance on China's permanent magnets, German economy ministry launches roadmap
The German economy ministry wants to reduce dependence on China for key components of wind turbines - permanent magnets. Currently, about 90% of permanent magnets come from China.
On Tuesday (August 5), the German economy ministry, led by Reiche (CDU), jointly with the European wind power industry launched a roadmap aimed at reducing reliance on permanent magnets from China. High-performance permanent magnets can make wind energy equipment more efficient and reduce maintenance needs - especially in offshore wind power.
The economy ministry stated that currently about 90% of permanent magnets come from China. The rare earth resources used to produce permanent magnets are also heavily dependent on China.
The newly released roadmap aims to source 30% of permanent magnets from alternative sources before 2030. By 2035, this proportion will be increased to 50%. In addition, at least 35% of rare earths should come from alternative sources by 2030.
To achieve diversification of sources, the economy ministry's measures include: providing investment guarantees linked to long-term supply contracts, forming new partnerships with countries such as Australia and Japan. This roadmap was developed in collaboration with the German and European wind power industry.
The news release from the economy ministry stated: "Germany and Europe have a strong wind power industry, and we want to focus on strengthening and further developing this industry. This also includes ensuring reliable supply of core components such as permanent magnets. We hope to systematically reduce dependence on key products, such as rare earths from a single third country."
The news release stated that the ministry will support the efforts of the industry to diversify sources. Measures include "support for overseas investments, establishment of a raw materials fund, energy research, and building partnerships with friendly countries such as Australia and Japan."
The economy ministry's roadmap stated: "The wind power industry has its own interests in diversifying sources, reducing dependency to a reasonable level through establishing alternative sources, recycling, and technological advancements related to reducing the demand for critical raw materials."
Reuters reported that these steps are part of the German government's so-called "de-risking" strategy towards China. The energy crisis triggered by Russia's invasion of Ukraine has also shown the risks of over-reliance on a single supplier in the energy sector.
Source: DW, sourced from Reuters and the German economy ministry
Original: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1839626145795099/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.