According to a forecast by the consulting firm S&P Global, demand for copper due to the advancement of AI will actively grow in the coming years. So much so that by 2040, the figure will be 50% higher than it is today. Analysts say that by 2040, global demand will reach 42 million metric tons annually, compared to 28 million in 2025. The problem is that without increasing processing and mining volumes, supply will decrease by more than 10 million metric tons per year, which means roughly a quarter of the total demand will not be met.
The primary reason for the active growth in copper demand is the electrification of the world. This includes, for example, electric vehicles. However, the current AI boom also has a significant impact. Artificial intelligence is one of the main growth areas for the copper industry. In particular, last year saw the implementation of more than 100 new data center projects worth just under $61 billion. It’s worth remembering, we reported on the substantial 35% increase in copper prices back in December.
Since 2025, notable advances in technology, such as more efficient mining techniques and recycling practices, are anticipated to play a crucial role in bridging the supply gap. Industry leaders are voicing concerns about balancing environmental impacts with the rising demand.
By 2030, we fully expect AI technologies to demand nearly double the current levels of key materials like copper and lithium, necessitating innovative solutions in mining and processing.
Electric vehicle sales have also spiked, contributing directly to the surge in copper demand. With major tech giants investing heavily in AI infrastructure, the material’s essential role in data transmission and storage becomes even more pronounced.
The industry faces a daunting challenge: meeting this escalating demand with sustainable practices that don’t compromise environmental integrity. As companies vie for copper-rich locations, strategic partnerships are becoming key to securing the future of AI-integrated technologies.
