current
Critical Minerals Demand
Datacenter construction and renewable energy infrastructure are driving increased demand for critical minerals like copper, aluminum, and battery metals.
Timeframe
long-term
Categories
Impact areas
Detailed Analysis
The construction of datacenters and the associated expansion of renewable energy capacity are placing significant strain on the supply of critical minerals. Copper, essential for wiring and electrical components, is facing a projected supply shortfall. "S&P Global Commodity Insights forecast in its copper Commodity Briefing Service report for September that demand for this critical mineral will grow over the next several years and a supply shortfall will materialize as early as 2028."
Context Signals
Declining rate of major new copper discoveries.
Growing demand for battery metals driven by energy storage needs.
Competition for critical mineral resources intensifying globally.
Edge
Increased focus on recycling and recovery of critical minerals from existing infrastructure.
Exploration of alternative materials and technologies to reduce reliance on scarce minerals.
Geopolitical tensions arising from competition for critical mineral resources.
