As the world transitions from fossil fuels to renewable power and other clean energy technologies, we are entering a “super cycle” of demand for new materials. The digitalization of the global economy also drives this demand, as power grids become smarter, sustainable and more resilient. What do all these green initiatives have in common? Batteries. The World Bank has forecasted that the production of metals such as lithium, cobalt, zinc and graphite will need to increase by as much as 500% by 2050 to meet the exploding demand for batteries in EVs, energy storage and electronic devices.
In this episode of Milbank's Law, Policy & Markets, Global Project, Energy & Infrastructure Finance partners Allan Marks and Alec Borisoff take a deep dive into the world of battery metals with two guests from Pala Investments: General Counsel Kate Southwell and Head Strategist Jessica Fung.
