Partner Insight: Unlocking returns in net zero

Changing demand patterns for metals and minerals offers investors new opportunities in the energy transition

Sarka Halas
clock • 1 min read
Partner Insight: Unlocking returns in net zero

In the rush to build electric vehicles, wind turbines, and solar panels in the transition towards decarbonisation, unique opportunities with the potential for long-term growth are emerging in the metals and minerals sector.  

Metals and minerals are an interesting proposition for investors because demand patterns for mainstream materials like steel and copper will need to reduce, and more uncommon, but equally critical metals are likely to see rising demand.  

Demand for these commodities is rising significantly; over the next two decades expected demand for copper and rare earth minerals could rise by 40%, demand for nickel and cobalt could gain by 60-70% and demand for lithium could rise almost 90%, according to the International Energy Agency. 

In addition to metals and minerals, a stop-gap of transition fuels such as natural gas and ethanol could potentially be key to ensuring a smoother journey to net zero.   

Join us for our live video podcast on Thursday February 8, at 1pm GMT.  Hear from experts as they discuss the opportunity in metals and minerals, the importance of transition fuels and how this could potentially all seek to fit into investors' portfolios.

More on Investment

UK DIY investment grew by more than £100bn in 2025

UK DIY investment grew by more than £100bn in 2025

According to data released by Boring Money

Patrick Brusnahan
clock 11 February 2026 • 2 min read
Darius McDermott: Think active for the decade ahead

Darius McDermott: Think active for the decade ahead

'There are reasons to be nervous about the largest companies in the index'

Darius McDermott
clock 11 February 2026 • 5 min read
Why 2026 is the time for investors to challenge market 'certainties'

Why 2026 is the time for investors to challenge market 'certainties'

Six critical questions investors should be asking themselves

Matthew Spencer
clock 09 February 2026 • 4 min read

In-depth

Hargreaves Lansdown's fee cut to send competitors 'into a frenzy'

Hargreaves Lansdown's fee cut to send competitors 'into a frenzy'

Robo-advisers ‘now look comparatively expensive’

Isabel Baxter
clock 26 January 2026 • 7 min read
AI opportunity or dotcom déjà vu?

AI opportunity or dotcom déjà vu?

Experts tell Professional Adviser where they see long-term value in AI

Sahar Nazir
clock 19 January 2026 • 3 min read
The 'stark' impact of tax and pensions changes on special needs families

The 'stark' impact of tax and pensions changes on special needs families

Among hardest hit by ‘poorly consulted’ reforms

Jen Frost
clock 27 October 2025 • 8 min read