24/7/365 Dispatchable Solar Is Real. w/ EMBER's Kostantsa Rangelova & Dave Jones

For full show notes, bonus content, and ad-free listening, check out wickedproblems.earthIn this episode of Wicked Problems, host Richard Delevan welcomes Dave Jones and Kostantsa Rangelova from the energy think tank, EMBER. They've spent the past year spreading the good news about the impressive advancements in solar and battery technology, particularly focusing on global trends and potential game-changers in regions such as Africa and Mexico. Despite solar only contributing to 6.6% of Mexico’s electricity, EMBER simulations indicate it could rise to 90% with optimal efficiency. In some spots like Muscat, Las Vegas, or Mexico City, almost all their power, day and night, can now be generated from just solar + battery.The discussion covers the rapid progress and cost reductions in battery technology, the promising shift towards 24/7 solar power, the surge of solar adoption in Africa, and the significant untapped potential in Mexico. The episode highlights the transformative impact of solar and battery technologies on global energy landscapes and emphasizes the urgent need for effective policies to accelerate this transition.00:00 Introduction to Mexico's Solar Potential00:00 Global Governance Breakdown00:36 Welcome to Wicked Problems00:39 Introducing the Guests: Dave Jones and Constanza Rva01:05 The Rise of Solar and Battery Technology01:33 24/7 Solar Power: A Game Changer01:54 Advancements in Battery Technology02:51 Economic Competitiveness of Solar and Battery04:38 Challenges and Innovations in Battery Production08:17 Global Adoption and Market Dynamics15:20 Grid vs. Battery: The Trade-Offs21:05 Solar and Battery in Different Climates24:27 Implications for Policy and Future Outlook26:09 Evolution of Battery Storage27:29 Africa's Solar Boom27:59 Chinese Solar Exports to Africa28:52 Utility Scale Solar in Africa37:50 Challenges and Opportunities in Mexico's Solar Sector47:26 Global Solar Trends and Future Outlook Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.