Critical elements for a successful energy transition: A systematic review

•A systematic review on the supply of critical raw materials for the energy transition.•Critical elements are discussed in terms of geological and geopolitical supply risk and associated environmental and social aspects.•Energy transition requires efforts to address supply concerns and a careful, strategic planning of energy technologies to be deployed.•Copper was found to be the most concerning critical raw material for the energy transition.•Mix of social and environmental issues could hinder future energy security and were least discussed in the literature reviewed.