VCo2 | The Climate Investing Podcast Which Battery Will Power Our Future? | Dave Borlace (Just Have a Think)
Aug 7, 2025
Dave Borlace, creator of the popular YouTube channel Just Have a Think, breaks down the pivotal role of batteries in the energy transition. He explains the advantages and challenges of various battery types, including lithium-ion, sodium-ion, and emerging solid-state technologies. The discussion highlights China's dominance in battery production and its impact on global pricing. Borlace explores innovations like lithium-sulfur and aluminum batteries, shedding light on their potential to revolutionize energy storage and support renewable energy initiatives.
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Batteries Vital for Renewable Grid
- Renewable energy sources are intermittent and require storage to balance supply and demand on the grid.
- Batteries prevent energy loss from curtailing and provide stability to increasingly distributed renewable systems.
China Drives Lithium-Ion Dominance
- China's government incentives and massive volume drove lithium-ion battery cost down dramatically.
- Economy of scale and rapid technological development made lithium-ion the dominant battery tech globally.
Lithium-Ion Recycling Boosts Sustainability
- Recycled lithium and second-life battery use greatly reduce the environmental impact of lithium-ion batteries.
- Batteries last much longer than expected and can be repurposed for stationary storage after car use.