A systems engineering framework for the quantification of REE recovery from e-waste

Harnessing wind energy for electricity began in the late 1800s. However, large-scale wind power generation picked up pace in the early 2000s to reduce reliance on fossil fuels in a bid to reduce global warming. In coming years, demand for wind power is set to increase to meet the objectives of the Paris Agreement. With most wind turbines transitioning to permanent magnet generators due to improved efficiency, the anticipated increase in wind turbine (WT) deployment is expected to tip the balance so the demand for REEs is higher than supply at current rates of extraction. Additionally, WTs have an average lifespan of 30 years, indicating waste may accumulate over time. This work proposes 2 models; a conceptual value model applied to test the sustainability of recovery from e-waste as a supplementary source of REEs, and a quantification model to estimate amounts of REEs anticipated from WT permanent magnet waste.