What is the Demand for Copper in New Energy?

[MacLydia]

New energy has a demand for copper in motors and batteries. The following is a detailed introduction to the demand for copper in new energy: New energy vehicle motors: The usage of new energy vehicles will increase comprehensively compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. Their motors require a large amount of wiring internally. Currently, the majority of new energy vehicles on the market choose to use PMSM (Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors). This type of motor uses approximately 0.1kg of copper per kW. Since the power of commercially available new energy vehicles is generally above 100kW, the copper usage for the motor alone exceeds 10kg. New energy vehicle batteries: In addition, batteries and charging functions require a significant amount of copper, leading to a substantial increase in overall copper usage. According to calculations by IDTechEX analysts, hybrid vehicles use approximately 40kg of copper per vehicle, plug-in vehicles use about 60kg, pure electric vehicles use 83kg, and large vehicles such as pure electric buses require 224-369kg of copper.

[LucyRose]

As someone who enjoys tinkering with electric vehicles, I've noticed the surging demand for copper in the new energy sector, especially in electric cars. Components like motors, battery packs, and charging stations in EVs all rely on copper wiring for current conduction due to its excellent conductivity. An average electric vehicle uses 3 to 4 times more copper than a conventional car, amounting to around 80 kilograms. With the global push for EVs—fueled by policies like subsidies in China and Europe—copper consumption is skyrocketing, with demand expected to double by 2025. However, the challenge lies in limited copper mining; opening new mines takes years and causes significant environmental damage. This makes recycling scrap copper—from old wires or appliances—critical, though current recovery rates are only about 30%. Improving this could ease supply strains. Technologically, efforts are underway to develop thin-layer copper coatings or aluminum alternatives to boost efficiency. In short, copper is the invisible backbone of green mobility—without it, we’d be stuck.

[TheoDella]

I often install solar panels and understand the significant role of copper in renewable energy. In solar systems, cables connect the panels, inverters, and the grid, with each household solar setup using over 10 kilograms of copper. Similarly, the internal wiring of wind turbines consumes a substantial amount of copper. The expansion of new energy projects is driving a surge in demand, with copper usage potentially increasing by more than 50% in the next decade to support net-zero goals. However, copper mine production is growing slowly, and mining requires environmental approvals, which can delay projects. Rising copper prices may also impact equipment costs. Fortunately, recycling can help bridge the gap, as copper recovered from old wind turbine towers or discarded equipment maintains a high purity of 90%. Community recycling programs are crucial. The industry should also explore efficient usage methods, such as reducing copper wire thickness, to avoid resource waste.

[DelArthur]

Copper is a core material in the new energy era. The widespread adoption of electric vehicles means each new car requires significant copper for its motor. Solar and wind farms also rely on copper wiring for power transmission, driving up overall demand. Supply faces challenges, as new copper mine development involves long cycles and high emissions. Recycling scrap copper can help buffer supply, but global recycling rates remain low. Technological advancements, such as lightweight copper designs or partial substitutes, are progressing, impacting both cost and sustainability.