Critical Metals Efficiency in Clean Energy Transition

This whitepaper discusses the significance of critical metals efficiency in the context of the clean energy transition. It outlines the increasing demand for essential metals such as copper, nickel, cobalt, and lithium, driven primarily by the electrification of energy use, particularly in battery production. The document emphasizes that the rising demand for these metals is projected to outpace supply, raising concerns about sustainability and social equity in meeting net-zero ambitions. It argues that while energy efficiency is crucial, it must be complemented by strategies that optimize the use of critical metals. The paper advocates for the inclusion of complementary technologies that utilize alternative metals, such as platinum group metals, to mitigate the intensity of critical metals use. These technologies are essential for addressing hard-to-abate sectors and optimizing infrastructure costs. The whitepaper aims to elevate the discussion around metals efficiency to ensure it is adequately considered in the energy transition process.