Energy efficient copper

One of copper’s most attractive properties is its effectiveness in conducting electricity. Electrical wire and cable remains one of copper’s principle uses around the world, accounting for over 50% of its use, and growing demand for cleaner and more efficient energy supplies continues to present new opportunities.

The drive to replace the combustion engines in vehicles with electric motors is one example of this growing demand. While a traditional petrol-driven car contains around 22 kilograms of copper, electric cars contain at least three-times that amount, mainly in wiring and other electrical components.

Renewable energy systems are also heavily reliant on copper to transmit energy with maximum efficiency and minimal environmental impact. A large wind-driven turbine, for example, incorporates more than a tonne of copper, while developments in solar cell technology using copper have the potential to make solar power more plentiful and less expensive than silicon-based alternatives.