Demand for copper to dramatically outstrip supply within decade

International Energy Agency says it is time to sound alarm' over future shortages of metal needed for low-carbon transition

Demand for copper, needed for the transition to a low-carbon world, will outstrip supply within the next decade, according to the global energy watchdog.

Supplies of the metal, a key component of every form of electrical energy system at present, will fall 30% short of the amount required by 2035 if nothing is done, analysis by the International Energy Agency predicts.