Guangdong Province
Critical Minerals and The Energy TransitionCritical minerals, policy, and the energy transition
The Energy Transition in Guangdong Province
Guangdong Province, located in southern China, is a powerhouse in the nation’s energy transition, thanks to its robust industrial base and strategic mineral resources. The province is home to a range of critical minerals such as lithium, iron, cobalt, copper, zinc, germanium, selenium, tellurium, indium, rare earth elements, tantalum, gold, lead, and bismuth. These minerals are essential for the development of renewable energy technologies, electric vehicles, and advanced energy storage systems. Guangdong’s significant reserves of lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements, in particular, make it a key player in supporting China’s push for cleaner energy and technological innovation. Guangdong has embraced the energy transition by focusing on green and low-carbon development, integrating renewable energy sources into its industrial and economic fabric. As one of China’s most developed provinces, it is investing heavily in the expansion of solar, wind, and hydrogen energy, while simultaneously modernising its energy infrastructure to support clean energy integration. The province’s critical minerals, which are central to the production of green technologies, position it as a hub for electric vehicle manufacturing, renewable energy storage, and high-tech electronics. Moving forward, Guangdong is focusing on reducing its carbon footprint, increasing energy efficiency, and boosting the use of non-fossil fuels. The province is also investing in the development of smart grids and energy storage solutions to facilitate the smooth integration of renewables. By leveraging its critical mineral resources and aligning with national sustainability goals, Guangdong is positioning itself as a key contributor to China's energy transition.
Essential minerals production and products in Guangdong Province
A provincial analysis of China’s critical minerals and policies
SFA explores the provincial frontlines of China’s strategy to secure its future in the global energy transition. As demand for critical minerals rises for electric vehicles, batteries and renewable energy, China sits at the centre of this shift as both producer and consumer. SFA examines how provincial policies, resource endowments and mining practices shape China’s critical minerals landscape. From lithium-rich Qinghai to rare earth-heavy Inner Mongolia, this province-by-province analysis reveals the challenges and opportunities driving China’s role in the future of global energy and environmental policy.


Meet the Critical Minerals team
Trusted advice from a dedicated team of experts.

Henk de Hoop
Chief Executive Officer

Beresford Clarke
Managing Director: Technical & Research

Jamie Underwood
Principal Consultant

Ismet Soyocak
ESG & Critical Minerals Lead

Rj Coetzee
Senior Market Analyst: Battery Materials and Technologies

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