Short Wave When Batteries Get A Face Lift, So Do Renewables
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Feb 28, 2025 
Cooper Katz McKim, a producer from The Indicator at Planet Money, dives into the captivating world of battery technology and its crucial role in renewable energy. He discusses how grid-scale batteries are essential for managing energy supply, making renewables accessible around the clock. McKim highlights innovations in lithium-ion and sodium ion batteries, and the impact of electric vehicles on energy storage solutions. The conversation reveals how advancements in battery technology could reshape our energy landscape and economy.
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Battery Domino Effect
- Grid-scale battery storage advancements trace back to the 1990s with Sony's camcorder batteries.
- This spurred the "battery domino effect," driving demand and innovation across sectors like laptops and e-bikes.
China's Battery Foresight
- China's early investment in battery technology positioned them as a manufacturing hub.
- The rise of electric vehicles significantly increased demand, leading to cheaper and better batteries.
Lithium-ion Advantages
- Lithium-ion batteries revolutionized energy storage due to their high energy density and rechargeability.
- Lithium's light weight and ease of electron release contribute to its effectiveness.