Batteries are the backbone of the energy transition. From grid-scale storage to next-gen chemistries, the world is racing to shape a trillion-dollar industry.
But what are the fundamental differences between battery types? And which are actually game-changers?
To explore the battery market, I’m joined by Dave Borlace, the voice behind Just Have a Think, a YouTube channel trusted by 600,000+ people for its break down of complex climate and energy topics into compelling narratives.
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What we discussed:
Why battery tech is essential for the future of the grid
A breakdown of 6 battery types (from lithium-ion to aluminium-ion)
How China took the lead in battery manufacturing
What metrics matter: energy density, cycle life, cost, safety, and weight
… and more!
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Where to find Dave Borlace:
YouTube: Just Have a Think
LinkedIn: Dave Borlace
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(00:00) Introduction
(01:33) Batteries and the Energy Transition
(10:45) Lithium-Ion Dominance
(24:49) Exploring Lithium-Sulfur
(31:04) Is Sodium-Ion Viable?
(35:07) The Promise of Solid-State Batteries
(38:53) Incumbents vs. Innovators
(42:07) What’s Up with Flow Batteries?
(47:06) The Potential of Aluminum Batteries
(49:58) Rapid Fire Questions 🔥
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This episode is a bit different from our usual format. Typically, I sit down with climate investors, angels, VCs, and PEs. But this time, I wanted to try something new.
It's summer, and I thought it was the perfect moment to invite Dave Borlace, creator of Just Have a Think and one of the clearest voices on climate technology, to break down the battery landscape for us.
He's not an investor, but he’s a brilliant educator.
I hope you enjoy this special episode as much as I did.
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Apple Podcasts - https://shorturl.at/HIDcg
Spotify - https://shorturl.at/yDTfR
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