Rare earth metals are critical to development of new energy efficient technologies

Many rare earth products and technologies possess dual-use attributes, meaning they are used for both commercial and military purposes. In the commercial sector, for example, today’s hybrid vehicles employ rare earths permanent magnets in their electric traction drives,²⁷ which either replace or supplement internal combustion engines in hybrid automobiles, increasing energy efficiency.²⁸ Additionally, the Toyota Prius has a nickel metal hydride (Ni-MH) battery for energy storage, which increases overall fuel economy.²⁹ Wind turbines also integrate permanent magnets in gear- less generators for better reliability and online performance.³⁰ The new fluorescent light bulbs on the market utilize rare earth phosphors. These light bulbs consume 70 percent less energy than the older incandescent bulbs.³¹ Finally, rare earths are found in automobile catalytic convertors to reduce dangerous emissions of CO2 and ozone, contributing to a cleaner environment.³²