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The geopolitics of battery supply chains

The geopolitics of battery supply chains recording description

Explore the global battery supply chain through a geopolitical lens and see what it means for energy markets, security and the clean energy transition. The session traces how battery supply chains formed and globalised, examines the strategic role of China in manufacturing and mineral processing, and reviews efforts in Europe, North America and Asia to secure and diversify production. We close with forward looking scenarios on policy, recycling and new technologies, plus clear takeaways for strategy and risk.

The geopolitics of battery supply chains overview

  • Introduction to the strategic role of batteries in power systems, renewable integration and grid flexibility

  • How the battery value chain evolved from 1990 to 2020, including producers, technologies and regional specialisation

  • Mineral sourcing and processing, from extraction to refining and active materials

  • China’s position in cells, components and midstream processing, and why it matters

  • Regional responses to secure supply, including localisation, alliances and friend shoring

  • Policy, trade and sustainability standards, and how they shape investment decisions

  • The role of recycling, second life and material substitution in future supply

  • Scenario outlook for the next decade, with risks, trade offs and opportunities

  • Q and A and practical takeaways for procurement and strategy

The geopolitics of battery supply chains agenda

Introduction

The strategic role of batteries in renewable integration, grid flexibility and system resilience

The history of the battery supply chain from 1990 to 2020

  • Key producers and technologies over time

  • Evolution of mineral sourcing and processing

  • Early globalisation and regional specialisation

Outlook can the grid be redrawn

  • Strategies to diversify supply and reduce dependence on China

  • The role of policy, recycling and new technologies

  • Risks and trade offs in localising battery production

Q and A and final takeaways

Open questions from participants and a summary of key insights

Who should watch?

  • Energy companies, utilities and system operators planning storage and flexibility

  • Corporate energy buyers and procurement teams managing supply risk and sustainability

  • Investors, lenders and advisors assessing battery value chains and project bankability

  • Policy, trade and sustainability professionals working on industrial strategy and standards

  • Developers, OEMs and technology providers focused on storage deployment and recycling