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Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm has expressed significant concern regarding the US’s reliance on China for minerals essential to climate-friendly technologies.

In a statement to CNBC, Granholm said, “It’s one of the pieces of the supply chain that we’re very concerned about in the United States.” She noted the strategic importance of reducing dependence on nations whose values might not align with those of the US, especially given China’s dominance in rare earth mineral production and processing, which are critical for manufacturing electric vehicle batteries and solar panels.

Granholm mentioned that the US is updating regulations to support mining practices that are both “sustainable and efficient,” signaling a move towards mitigating environmental concerns while securing mineral resources.

To address these challenges, Granholm revealed plans for the US to collaborate with countries like Australia and Canada to diversify and secure mineral supplies.