13 Jul
We’re not far into the age of mega solar, but discarded modules are beginning to stack up, and they contain both rare and toxic materials. By 2050, there could be 80 million metric tons of discarded solar panels, according to a new study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. The average life of a PV […]
30 Jun
The House of Representatives July 1 passed the Moving Forward Act that provides billions of dollars for clean energy on a 233-188 vote. It will “help us rebuild our economy and combat climate change with a more than $126 billion investment in clean energy, energy efficiency and deep decarbonization,” said Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ). That […]
24 Jun
U.S. dependence on imported materials, including some rare minerals used in energy storage and vehicles, is increasing while the supply reliability is diminishing. Demand for lithium, graphite and cobalt is expected to grow 500% by mid-century to meet clean energy demand. “The pandemic has shown how delicate the supply chains are,” U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski […]
17 Sep
The surge in renewable energy and electric vehicles highlights the risks of importing limited essential minerals from opaque markets, many in unstable regions. The matter is further exacerbated by the United States’ failure to compete in this area. “Batteries don’t work without lithium, graphite, cobalt and nickel; solar panels require silver, gallium, indium, tellurium; and […]
CA Current
