Impact of nickel on energy storage

Is nickel mining a sustainable resource?

Global nickel demand is projected to double by 2050 to support low-carbon technologies and renewable energy production. However, biomass carbon emissions from clearing vegetation for nickel mining are rarely included in corporate sustainability reports or considered in mineral sourcing decisions.

How does low-cost production affect nickel supply?

In this perspective, we discuss nickel supply where abundant low-cost production coincides with unsustainable practices and reinforces low prices. Low prices discourage investing in clean energy integration or low-impact technologies in mining and processing operations.

How can a Responsible Investment contribute to sustainable nickel production?

Responsible investment can complement just-transition-led economic development in resource-rich nations and translate discerned demand into sustainable nickel capacity, provided public policy and institutions drive political will for coordinated, climate-aligned strategies.

What is the future demand for nickel?

Climate action, among other factors, is projected to see future nickel demand from energy technologies soar to 2.27 Mt of nickel per year by 2050 9. A recent analysis by the International Energy Agency predicts that cleantech demand for nickel will increase from 0.48 Mt (in 2023) to 3.4 Mt by 2040 11.

What is nickel used for?

Today, nickel is primarily used in stainless steel and other alloys, as well as in specialized corrosion-resistant plating 10, 11. Nickel is also used to produce numerous low-carbon energy production and storage technologies, including batteries and infrastructure for geothermal, wind, solar photovoltaic, hydroelectric, and nuclear energy.

Why is ni a critical metal?

Increasing demand for Ni in the clean energy transition has identified Ni as a critical metal. Ni provides high storage capacity, which reduces the size of lithium ion-batteries. High-grade Ni laterites and sulfide deposits are depleting due to intensive production and overconsumption.