The United States has released an updated list of critical minerals, highlighting the growing importance of metals that support clean energy, technology, and national security. This new list from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and the Department of the Interior now has 51 minerals.
The draft recommends adding six minerals—potash, silicon, copper, silver, rhenium, and lead, listed in order of risk—to the U.S. Critical Minerals List, while removing two minerals, arsenic and tellurium.
Silver and copper are included for the first time. The update shows how crucial these resources are for America’s industrial and clean energy plans. Both metals are in high demand for renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, and advanced electronics.
The U.S. wants to expand the list to boost supply security, cut down on imports, and get ready for global competition over these resources.
Why the U.S. Updates Its Critical Minerals List
Critical minerals are defined as non-fuel minerals that are vital to the U.S. economy and security but are at risk of supply disruptions. The U.S. first released a formal list in 2018, and it has been updated several times as global demand and geopolitical risks shift.
The 2025 update considers several factors, including:
- Economic importance: Minerals are essential for industries like defense, energy, and technology.
- Supply chain risks: The potential for shortages due to import dependence or geopolitical tensions.
- Future demand: Projected growth in renewable energy and electric vehicle markets.
Silver and copper were added because new data show their strategic role in clean energy. Both metals are widely available globally, but demand is increasing so quickly that supply risks are now more relevant.
This update highlights how the U.S. is adjusting its policies to keep pace with the global race for minerals.
Silver: A Rising Star in the Energy Transition
Silver’s addition to the list is significant. Traditionally known as a precious metal, silver is also one of the most effective conductors of electricity. This property makes it essential for solar panels, batteries, and electronics.
- Solar panels: Silver paste is used in photovoltaic cells to conduct electricity. Each panel requires 15–20 grams of silver, and global solar demand is expected to drive record use.
- Electronics: From smartphones to electric vehicles, silver is a critical component in circuit boards and electrical connections.
- Medical uses: Silver’s antimicrobial properties also make it valuable for healthcare applications.
According to the Silver Institute, solar energy alone could account for nearly half of silver’s industrial demand by 2030. However, global mine supply has been relatively flat, creating concerns about shortages.
By adding silver to the list, U.S. policymakers recognize the growing risk of relying too heavily on foreign sources. While the U.S. produces some silver, much of the supply comes from countries like Mexico, Peru, and China. This creates potential vulnerabilities as clean energy deployment accelerates.
Copper: The Backbone of Electrification
Copper is another critical addition to the 2025 list. Known as the “metal of electrification,” copper is vital for power grids, renewable energy, electric vehicles, and data centers.
- Electric vehicles (EVs): EVs require up to four times more copper than gasoline-powered cars, mainly for batteries and wiring.
- Power grids: Copper is a key material in transmission lines, transformers, and substations. Expanding renewable energy capacity depends on copper-intensive infrastructure.
- Clean energy: Wind turbines and solar farms use large amounts of copper in their electrical systems.
Global demand for copper is projected to double by 2035, according to industry forecasts. Yet, mining capacity has struggled to keep pace. Large new projects take years to develop, and permitting challenges in the U.S. have slowed growth.
The U.S. currently imports a significant share of its copper, with major suppliers including Chile and Canada. The government calls copper a critical mineral. This signals a plan to boost domestic production and recycling. The goal is to reduce reliance on imports.
Broader Implications of the Critical Minerals List
The new list does more than identify resources; it also influences U.S. policy and investment. Minerals on the list qualify for government programs that support domestic exploration, mining, and processing. This can include federal funding, streamlined permitting, and public-private partnerships.
For companies, being linked to critical minerals often boosts investor interest. It signals long-term demand and potential access to U.S. government support. U.S. mining firms looking for silver and copper deposits could find more financing options.
The updated list also affects international trade. By focusing on these resources, the U.S. can form new partnerships with allies that have rich mineral reserves. This move also helps cut down reliance on countries with high supply risks.
Adding silver and copper to the critical minerals list is more than just a policy shift. It impacts markets, industries, and climate goals directly. Knowing how these metals influence clean energy and tech development shows why the update is important.
The Global Race for Silver and Copper
The U.S. is not alone in its push to secure mineral supplies. The European Union, Japan, and China are updating their plans. They want to secure steady access to silver, copper, and other key resources.
- China: A dominant player in mineral refining and processing, especially for copper and rare earths. By 2025, China is set to produce 57% of the world’s refined copper. Its output is expected to rise by 7.5% to 12% each year, despite global copper shortages. China also leads in copper smelting and refining. Since 2019, it has added over 97% of the global capacity.
- Europe: The region recycles around 37% of the world’s silver. This is much higher than its primary silver production, which is only about 7%. Most of that production comes from Poland and Sweden. In Europe, up to 90% of copper in buildings and infrastructure is recycled. This highlights the importance of reuse and circular economy initiatives.
- Global supply: Silver and copper mining is concentrated in a few countries, such as China, Peru, Chile, and the DRC, raising concerns about bottlenecks.
As countries accelerate clean energy goals, competition for these metals is expected to grow. Some analysts warn of a potential supply gap in copper as early as 2030 if new projects do not come online quickly enough.
Mining, Recycling, and the Green Dilemma
While expanding mining is a logical solution to supply risks, it comes with challenges. Mining projects often raise environmental and social concerns, including water use, land disturbance, and impacts on local communities.
In the U.S., new projects frequently face delays due to permitting and opposition. Balancing the need for secure supply with environmental protections will remain a key challenge. Recycling may help close the gap, but new production will still be required.
The recognition of silver and copper as critical minerals reflects these trade-offs. Policymakers see the environmental challenges. They believe that securing supply is key to economic and climate goals.
Looking Ahead: U.S. Strategy for a Mineral-Driven Future
The updated critical minerals list reveals how the U.S. is getting ready for a future focused on clean energy, electrification, and digital technologies. Silver and copper are now seen not only as industrial metals but as pillars of energy security.
Moving forward, the U.S. will likely expand efforts to:
- Support domestic mining and refining of silver and copper.
- Increase recycling and circular economy solutions.
- Build alliances with mineral-rich countries.
- Balance environmental concerns with supply needs.
By naming silver and copper as critical, the U.S. is aligning its resource strategy with long-term economic and climate goals. The next decade will determine whether the country can secure enough of these essential metals to stay competitive in the global energy transition.
- FURTHER READING: U.S. DOE Reveals $1B Funding to Boost Critical Minerals Supply Chain
