In the midst of the global shift towards greener technologies, copper is emerging as a critical element, potentially leading to a significant surge in demand. Reflective of its indispensable role in renewable energy, electric vehicles, and artificial intelligence, copper’s demand is intensifying as these sectors expand. For example, producing electricity via solar farms requires three times as much copper as gas-fired stations, and offshore wind generation needs nearly eight times more.
The ongoing transition to low-carbon technologies demands less fuel but significantly more materials, notably copper. Electric vehicles, for instance, require six times the minerals of traditional vehicles. This surge in demand highlights an ironic twist: achieving net zero significantly relies on the mining sector, known for its substantial greenhouse gas emissions. Nonetheless, without these essential materials, such as copper, transitioning to sustainable energy solutions remains a distant goal.
This backdrop sets the stage for BHP’s recent $60 billion bid for Anglo American, aiming to consolidate its position in copper production amid rising global demand. Despite being rejected as “highly unattractive,” the bid underscores the strategic importance of copper in today’s economy. The offer from BHP, a mining giant, reflects a clear focus on Anglo American’s valuable copper assets amidst its diverse portfolio.
The global copper market is currently tight, with production challenges and high costs. The environmental hurdles and lengthy timelines associated with copper mining necessitate higher prices to justify the significant investment required. Historically, copper prices have been cyclical, often experiencing long periods of stability followed by sharp increases driven by robust demand.
The narrative of rising demand isn’t just limited to conventional uses. Emerging technologies, particularly data centers for AI, which are expected to double their energy consumption shortly, represent a new frontier for copper usage. This could potentially add another 2% to global copper demand, pushing the market into a deficit and propelling prices higher.
Investors considering copper as part of their portfolios might look towards exchange-traded funds that track copper prices or directly invest in mining companies with substantial copper interests like Antofagasta, Glencore, Rio Tinto, BHP, Vale, Freeport McMoRan, and Teck Resources. While commodities typically match inflation with high volatility, the potential for a significant upswing in copper prices could justify a strategic, albeit limited, investment to capitalize on this anticipated rise.
Tom Stevenson of Fidelity International points out, while commodities might not always be ideal for long-term strategic holdings due to their volatile nature, the imminent sector shifts and increasing copper demand suggest that now might be the right time to consider investing in this critical metal. 
