Once associated with humble tin cans, tin has emerged as a critical technological metal of the 21st century. Its significance is soaring, driven by the twin forces of decarbonization and digitization.
Often overlooked, tin has become the "glue of the digital age," serving as a key component in solder, which connects the circuit boards of smartphones, servers, and data centers. This application alone accounts for roughly 50% of global tin demand.
According to the International Tin Association, the semiconductor market is projected to grow at 7% annually through 2030, ensuring steady demand for tin.
The rise of renewable energy, particularly solar power, further amplifies this trend. In 2022, solar energy accounted for 4.5% of global electricity generation, but by 2030, renewable sources are expected to dominate, with 80% of new power capacity coming from renewables. This shift will require increasing amounts of tin for photovoltaic systems and related infrastructure.
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Electric vehicles (EVs) are another major driver. EVs use two to three times more tin than conventional internal combustion engine vehicles, primarily in their complex electronics and battery systems. With forecasts suggesting that 30–60% of global car sales will be EVs by 2030, the transportation sector is poised to become a significant consumer of tin. Looking ahead, emerging technologies like sodium-ion batteries, where tin serves as an anode material, are expected to create a new source of demand, further cementing the metal’s role in the energy transition.
Tin may be unassuming, but its importance cannot be overstated. As the world embraces digital innovation and green energy, this versatile metal is proving to be an indispensable enabler of the digital and sustainable future.
