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- Yi Cui
One-on-one candid conversations from the foremost and sometimes controversial thought leaders.
Decarbonization of the energy system is generating unprecedented interest in long duration energy storage (LDES) technologies. A flurry of LDES innovation is underway to manage structural issues in the electrical power industry and to compete with lithium ion (Li-ion) batteries. What are the characteristics of the key technologies and their opportunities? How can current obstacles of cost and inefficiency be overcome?
After the pandemic-induced drop in 2020, energy demand and emissions are back on their growth trajectories. In its report “Net Zero by 2050: A Roadmap for the Global Energy Sector,” the IEA stated that getting to net-zero by 2050 will require “nothing short of a total transformation of the energy system that underpins our economies.” The report also observed that “the pathway is narrow but achievable.” Shorter innovation cycles and faster scale-up of new and existing energy technologies will be essential in achieving these targets within this time frame. Although the power sector is decarbonizing at a fast pace, other sectors are lagging significantly. How are three of the world’s leading universities addressing this challenge? How are these universities planning to reduce industrial emissions? How are universities, national labs, and energy companies improving their collaborations? What climate-resilient infrastructure investments do universities recommend publicly funding? What is the responsibility of universities to enable and support a “Just Transition” in developing countries? How can universities encourage the next generation to work in the energy industry?