Still To Be Determined 274: In Training - Regenerative “Braking” News
Jul 24, 2025
Matt and Sean dive into the intriguing world of regenerative braking, exploring its potential to power more than just vehicles. They discuss Spain's innovative strategies for capturing regenerated energy, showcasing how it could enhance city grids and EV charging. Topics include the barriers to adoption and the financial implications for cities. The pair emphasizes the importance of raising awareness among transit professionals, hoping to inspire future projects that harness this overlooked energy source.
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Hydrogen’s Role Is Narrowing
- Hydrogen is increasingly criticized in recent papers for cost, logistics, and lifecycle CO2 impacts.
- Matt says hydrogen still has niche uses where energy transport by fuel is necessary despite broader shortcomings.
Ammonia As A Practical Hydrogen Carrier
- Ammonia is presented as a practical hydrogen carrier because it's easier to contain than hydrogen.
- Matt notes significant research and interest in ammonia for transport and storage of hydrogen today.
Prague Metro’s Longstanding Regen Use
- Antonin Kral pointed out Prague's metro has used regenerative braking since the 1990s and reuses much of the energy.
- Sean and Matt acknowledge the point and emphasize the video focuses on sending regen energy into the wider grid or new uses.