Chile
Critical minerals, policy, and the energy transition
The Energy Transition in Chile
Chile plays a central role in the global energy transition as a top-tier producer of critical minerals, including lithium, copper, molybdenum, and rhenium—elements essential to electric vehicles, renewable infrastructure, and advanced technologies. As the world’s second-largest lithium producer and leading copper exporter, Chile's mining output from the Atacama and Antofagasta regions is deeply embedded in global clean energy value chains. Chile's energy mix is rapidly diversifying, with solar and wind generation growing alongside its traditional reliance on hydropower and fossil fuels. The government has launched ambitious decarbonisation goals, supported by its integration in major international frameworks like the OECD, APEC, and CPTPP. However, water scarcity, Indigenous land rights, and environmental pressures in mining zones continue to shape public policy and investment risk. Chile’s state-led mineral strategy and climate agenda are positioning the country as both a regional leader and a critical player in shaping the geopolitics of clean energy supply chains.
United States energy and power mix


Energy Raw Materials and products produced in Chile
Ceased Energy Raw Materials and products produced in Chile
Essential minerals production and products in Chile
Ceased essential minerals production and products in Chile
Disputed overseas territories of Chile
The journey of South America's critical minerals
South America's advancement in renewable energy depends significantly on key minerals such as lithium, nickel, and cobalt, alongside PGMs, rare earths, and minor metals, which are vital for the development of low carbon and future technologies through the support of sustainable mining and innovative policies. This approach highlights the critical role of these minerals in securing a sustainable and energy-independent future. Explore how these critical minerals are central to South America's journey towards sustainable energy transformation.




Meet the Critical Minerals team
Trusted advice from a dedicated team of experts.

Henk de Hoop
Chief Executive Officer

Beresford Clarke
Managing Director: Technical & Research

Jamie Underwood
Principal Consultant

Ismet Soyocak
ESG & Critical Minerals Lead

Rj Coetzee
Senior Market Analyst: Battery Materials and Technologies

Dr Sandeep Kaler
Market Strategy Analyst

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