Critical Minerals

Demand for critical minerals continues to rise, largely driven by the energy transition and the development of new technologies.

These minerals, such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements, are used in the production of batteries for electric vehicles, solar panels, wind turbines and grid-scale energy storage. Other minerals, such as copper, aluminium, zinc and tin, are categorised as critical minerals in other jurisdiction such as the US and Canada, and also play key roles in the energy transition and growth of AI. Australia has the potential to secure a share of the global market through greater investment and coordination, understanding of existing technologies, and efficient processing methods.

KWM’s energy and resources practices are renowned - providing comprehensive, strategic legal support for the largest stakeholders in the mining & energy sectors. We offer tailored, value-driven advice throughout the entire mineral lifecycle, adeptly managing operational, expansion, and regulatory challenges, excelling in facilitating complex deals, joint venture relationships and innovative project and financing solutions in Australia and key markets worldwide. Our deep bench strength of energy and resources lawyers span the east and west coasts, with expertise in the Americas, Africa, Asia and Europe, and work cohesively together frequently and efficiently, ensuring we provide our clients with the most advanced and effective solutions for their projects.

Navigating Net Zero: APAC Climate Guide

In our APAC Climate Guide, experts across the region share their insights as they help clients to navigate the transition. We look at the incentives encouraging clean energy, how carbon markets are expanding, the growth of sustainable finance and the role of the private sector. We also look at focus areas in each jurisdiction, from wind power in Japan to electric vehicles in China.

05 February 2025

Leading the Charge: EV Battery Supply Chains

The strong global push to electrify the world’s vehicle population has in turn created exponential demand for the various components comprising an EV, with the most important being its energy source – the battery. The EV battery (and its supply chain) serves as the single most valuable part of an EV, typically accounting for 30% to 40% of the value of the vehicle[2]. This high cost is mainly attributed to the battery’s composition of several critical raw minerals, including lithium, cobalt, manganese, nickel and graphite[3]. As we share below, these minerals are hard to come by and supply is concentrated in the hands of a few countries.

24 July 2024