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Webinar

Cheaper, not greener. Why metals demand growth continues without net-zero.

From copper and lithium to rare earths, understand where demand growth is headed, where supply remains constrained, and where investment opportunities may emerge.
Date 23 November 2026
Time 3pm BST

Electricity demand is rising and the economics of solar and batteries mean they are well placed to meet the bulk of demand increases – all while reducing reliance on fragile international trade. Total cost of ownership of EVs already beats ICE cars in some geographies and high fuel prices make the switch compelling. These new technologies are far more metals intensive than legacy. Add US concern over dependence on Chinese metals and western supply of metals is poised for strong growth – if capital is forthcoming.

This represents an opportunity for investors in energy markets. 

 

What our experts will be exploring

  • Cheaper technology and bigger demand: Battery pack prices have halved since 2020, solar output is set to double by 2030, and a BEV uses 3.5x the copper of a conventional car. Add in the data centre boom and the metals pull is hard to ignore.
  • China dependency risk: China dominates refining and processing across lithium, cobalt, graphite and rare earths, and has shown it will use export controls. The US is responding, seeking to build its own domestic supply chain.
  • Capital gaps: With over US$50 billion in funding available globally and the US leading the way, where is the money heading? Where do key supply gaps remain, and is current funding sufficient to bridge them?

Our speakers

Alex Griffiths, Director, Metals & Mining, Curated Services, Wood Mackenzie

Alex Griffiths

Director, Metals & Mining, Curated Services

Alex draws on his experience as a Resource Geologist to analyse and forecast global steel and iron ore markets.

Latest articles by Alex

View Alex Griffiths's full profile
Charles Cooper, Research Director, Head of Copper Research, Wood Mackenzie

Charles Cooper

Research Director, Head of Copper Research

Charles is a mining economist specialising in commodity markets and sustainability analytics.

Latest articles by Charles

View Charles Cooper's full profile

Register to join the conversation and the put your question our analysts as they examine the demand, supply and investment dynamics reshaping global metals markets.