UPDATE: New research reveals that the waste from fossil fuel power plants could hold nearly $100 billion worth of rare earth elements (REEs). A groundbreaking study from the University of Texas at Austin estimates that 11 million tons of REEs are buried in coal ash produced from power plants between 1985 and 2021. This urgent discovery could transform the U.S. energy landscape, providing a domestic source for critical minerals that are essential for modern technology.
The study, published in November 2024 in the International Journal of Coal Science & Technology, suggests that the total theoretical value of these elements could reach an astonishing $165 billion, with about $97 billion being recoverable through feasible extraction methods. Geologists are calling this a game-changer for the U.S., which currently relies on imports for more than 70 percent of its REE supply, primarily from China.
Coal ash, the residue left after burning coal, contains higher concentrations of REEs—between 4 to 10 times more than unburnt coal—making it a potentially lucrative resource. Geologist Bridget Scanlon, who co-led the research, emphasized the significance of this finding, stating, “This really exemplifies the ‘trash to treasure’ mantra. We’re basically trying to close the cycle and use waste to recover resources.”
The implications of this research are profound. REEs are vital for numerous industries, including renewable energy technologies like wind turbines and electric vehicles, as well as consumer electronics such as smartphones. The potential to tap into this buried treasure not only enhances energy security for the U.S. but could also create economic opportunities and reduce environmental impacts associated with traditional mining methods.
The researchers compiled extensive data on coal ash composition, extraction efficiencies, and storage locations across the country. Their findings indicate that the 52 billion tons of coal-ash waste generated since the 1950s may harbor substantial amounts of valuable minerals. Currently, the accessible coal ash could yield up to $14 billion in value.
Despite the promising figures, the extraction methods for these minerals are still under investigation. However, the U.S. government is closely monitoring these developments, recognizing the strategic importance of securing its own REE supply.
Looking ahead, the researchers urge that the potential for REE extraction from coal ash should be evaluated globally. This could pave the way for sustainable development of these critical resources in countries where coal ash is prevalent.
As scientists explore alternative sources for these essential minerals—from volcanic deposits to hyperaccumulator plants that naturally extract REEs—the urgency for sustainable solutions grows. The global demand for rare earth elements continues to rise, and how we choose to extract them will significantly impact our technological future.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story, as the implications of this research could reshape the U.S. energy strategy and influence global markets for years to come.
