Henan Province
Critical minerals, policy, and the energy transition
The Energy Transition in Henan Province
In central China, Henan Province plays a central role in the nation’s energy transition, driven by its abundant critical minerals and a commitment to sustainable development. The province is home to essential minerals such as aluminium, titanium, copper, zinc, gallium, molybdenum, silver, indium, antimony, rhenium, gold, lead, bismuth, and uranium, which are crucial for the production of renewable energy technologies, electric vehicles, and energy storage systems. These minerals support China’s green energy shift and technological advancements. As part of its energy transition strategy, Henan is significantly increasing its renewable energy capacity, with installed renewable energy power generation reaching over 67 million kilowatts by the end of 2023 and aiming for 55 million kilowatts by 2025, making renewable energy a significant component of its energy mix. The province is also investing in hydrogen energy, with plans to establish hydrogen refuelling stations and integrate hydrogen technology into various sectors, in line with the 14th Five-Year Plan for New Energy Development. Furthermore, Henan is working towards carbon neutrality by 2060, focusing on reducing coal consumption and expanding wind, solar, and biomass energy resources. The province is also driving improvements in energy efficiency across industries and supporting the growth of high-tech sectors while phasing out those with high energy consumption and emissions. Through these strategies, Henan positions itself as a key contributor to China’s low-carbon future, leveraging its mineral resources and advancing clean energy to meet national sustainability goals.
Essential minerals production and products in Henan 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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