Global renewables: Pioneering the energy transition | DW Documentary

Recent questions

• How are cities addressing the challenges of climate change?

  Cities worldwide are facing significant challenges due to climate change, with over 50% of the global population residing in urban areas. The transition to green energy is crucial for urban centers to combat these challenges, requiring a revolution in energy systems. For example, Lancaster, a city in California with a population of 175,000, aims to become the first carbon-neutral community in the US. Initiatives like installing photovoltaic panels on municipal buildings have led to cost savings and a reduction in unemployment rates. Similarly, Oslo, Norway, is striving to achieve zero CO2 emissions by 2030 by focusing on e-mobility and carbon-neutral construction. These efforts highlight the importance of sustainable practices in urban areas to mitigate the impact of climate change.

• How is the circular energy system benefiting Wunsiedel in Bavaria?

  Wunsiedel in Bavaria has adopted a circular energy system that utilizes local resources like solar and wind power. This approach has allowed the region to create a local circular economy for electricity and heat, linking the timber industry to the energy system. By leveraging renewable energy sources and establishing a sustainable energy model, Wunsiedel has been able to reduce its environmental impact while fostering economic growth. This circular energy system showcases the potential benefits of integrating local resources into energy production to create a more sustainable and resilient community.

• What innovative energy technologies are being explored in the offshore sector?

  In the offshore energy sector, innovative technologies like offshore wind and hydrogen are being explored as viable alternatives to traditional energy sources. For instance, a subsea link connecting Norway and England generates gigawatts of electricity, while a converter station facilitates the conversion of direct current to alternating current for efficient energy transmission. Britain leads in offshore wind power, becoming a green power exporter, with the Port of Blyth transforming into an offshore energy hub. These advancements in offshore energy technologies demonstrate the potential for sustainable energy solutions to enhance energy security and reduce carbon emissions in the offshore sector.

• How is the process of extracting elements from shredded batteries contributing to sustainability?

  The process of extracting elements from shredded batteries involves physically separating black powders to obtain a black mass containing lithium, nickel, cobalt, and manganese. This innovative approach to recycling batteries not only helps recover valuable materials but also contributes to sustainability by reducing the need for new resources. Researchers like Madhavi are working on closed-loop systems to minimize the use of new materials, resulting in patents and recognition for sustainable practices. By focusing on recycling and reusing materials from batteries, the industry is moving towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to resource management.

• What are researchers at the Technical University of Ilmenau working on for sustainable energy systems?

  Researchers at the Technical University of Ilmenau are working with III-V semiconductor compounds to combine high performance with low costs for sustainable energy systems. By exploring innovative materials and technologies, these researchers aim to develop efficient and cost-effective solutions for renewable energy production. Their work highlights the importance of advancing sustainable energy systems through research and development, paving the way for more environmentally friendly and economically viable energy solutions.