Name: HZ University of Applied Sciences
Price range: $

The energy transition requires much more than renewable energy alone. Wind turbines, solar panels, batteries, electrolysers and electric vehicles depend on materials such as lithium, nickel, copper, cobalt and rare earth elements. These raw materials are often scarce, are extracted outside Europe and are part of complex international value chains. A truly sustainable energy transition therefore also requires smarter use of materials, more reuse and new circular solutions.

The Critical Materials Research Group at HZ University of Applied Sciences explores how Zeeland can contribute to a future-proof, circular and resilient economy. The region offers a unique testing ground. Zeeland has a strong process industry, strategically located ports and major ambitions in wind energy, hydrogen, electrification and nuclear energy. At the same time, these developments create new residual material streams, new material challenges and new opportunities for regional businesses.

The research group works across three closely connected research themes. Within Circular Industry, we investigate how companies can use raw materials more efficiently, create value from residual streams and develop new circular value chains. The theme Circularity of the Energy Transition focuses specifically on the critical materials needed for sustainable energy technologies, from design and use to lifetime extension, reuse and recycling. Within Learning and Research Environments, we develop practical tools such as simulators, serious games, learning stations, models, digital dashboards and monitoring systems for material and residual streams.

Together with companies, public authorities, knowledge institutions and students, the research group translates complex challenges into applicable knowledge and concrete innovations. In this way, we contribute to an energy transition that is not only green, but also circular, fair and economically valuable for Zeeland.