Nickel is a versatile metal that plays an important role in the energy market. Due to its physical properties, such as high corrosion resistance and stability at high temperatures, nickel is used in many areas of energy production and storage. Nickel is becoming increasingly important, particularly in connection with the energy transition in Europe and the increased use of renewable energies.

One of the key applications of nickel in the energy market is in the production of batteries, particularly lithium-ion batteries, which are used in electric vehicles and for storing renewable energy. These batteries contain nickel because it increases energy density and power efficiency. A high nickel content in battery cells makes it possible to store more energy in a smaller space, which is crucial for increasing the range of electric vehicles and providing efficient energy storage solutions. In Austria, where the share of electric vehicles is continuously growing, nickel plays an essential role in supporting the e-mobility strategy and reducing CO₂ emissions.

Nickel is also an important component of alloys used in energy production. In the production of turbines for fossil and renewable energy sources such as wind turbines and gas-fired power plants, nickel ensures high thermal and mechanical stability. Nickel-containing alloys guarantee the necessary resistance and durability, particularly in wind turbines that operate under extreme weather conditions.

Nickel is in high demand in the European energy market due to its importance for sustainable technologies and the energy transition. Nickel-containing alloys are used, for example, in components for thermal power plants, solar systems and in the production of hydrogen through electrolysis. As Europe strives to play a pioneering role in the introduction of renewable energies, nickel will continue to be a key raw material for the development and implementation of innovative technologies.

Austria, as part of the European Union, also benefits from the availability of nickel for the energy transition. The promotion of sustainable technologies and the expansion of renewable energies is increasing the demand for materials that are reliable and sustainable. Nickel makes it possible to make technologies such as batteries, hydrogen storage and powerful turbines more efficient and durable. Austrian companies involved in the development and production of such technologies also rely on nickel as an important component.

However, the growing demand for nickel also brings challenges. Dependence on global nickel deposits, particularly from countries such as Indonesia and the Philippines, increases the risk of price volatility and supply bottlenecks. In Europe, increasing consideration is therefore being given to how nickel can be extracted and recycled in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way in order to minimize the environmental impact of nickel production.

The recycling rate for nickel is already relatively high in Europe, as the metal can be easily recovered without losing quality. This is particularly important for the circular economy and the long-term availability of resources. In Austria, efforts are being made to further promote the recycling of nickel and other strategic raw materials in order to reduce dependence on primary raw materials and reduce the environmental impact.

In summary, nickel is a crucial raw material in the energy market, which is of great importance both for batteries and for industrial applications in energy production. In view of increasing electrification and the expansion of renewable energies, nickel will continue to play a central role in achieving European and Austrian climate targets in the future. Through innovative recycling methods and sustainable production strategies, nickel can make an important contribution to the energy transition.