Minerals Boom for Clean Energy
The global shift toward clean energy is driving a surge in demand for critical minerals, which are expected to triple by 2040, according to the International Energy Agency’s Global Critical Minerals Outlook, CE Report quotes Anadolu Agency
Minerals like lithium, nickel, cobalt, graphite, copper, and rare earth elements are essential for electric vehicles, batteries, and renewable energy projects. As countries aim for net zero emissions, these materials have become not just economic assets but strategic priorities.
Annual demand is projected to reach 35 million tons by 2040, with investments growing from $45 billion in 2023 to $800 billion. Copper will lead in investment, drawing $490 billion, followed by nickel at $160 billion and lithium at $80 billion.
The world’s mineral processing capacity is expected to increase 32% by 2040, with graphite seeing the largest rise—over 260%. By then, clean energy technologies will account for more than half of the demand for key minerals, further elevating their strategic value in the green transition.
