From recycling old magnets to developing alternatives that avoid rare earths entirely, EU-funded researchers are exploring ways to make Europe’s clean energy transition less dependent on overseas suppliers.
By Michael Allen
Permanent magnets are a key component of most electric car traction motors, which turn the wheels, and of many wind turbine generators. Clean energy and clean technology increasingly depend on them. Yet Europe is vulnerable to disruptions in their supply chain.
“They are kind of indispensable for the energy transition,” said Alexandre Damiens, a magnets and rare earths expert at French energy company Orano. Rare earth magnets are exceptionally strong, allowing motors to be smaller, lighter and more efficient.






