The metal in electric wire is called the conductor. Many materials are used to transmit electrical energy, but those most frequently used are copper, copper-covered steel, h…igh strength copper alloys, and aluminum. i was thinking copper. Silver is the best electrical conductor but its cost prevents its use in ordinary wiring. copper is the next best, with aluminium third. For house wiring copper is almost uni … versal. For overhead power lines aluminium is preferred for its lower density which reduces the cost of overhead lines significantly although slightly larger conductors must be used for a given amount of power.