Blog Corner Image

Solid State Batteries

Solid State Batteries

Technology
It’s to surprise that technology is forever changing, adapting, and advancing. 

QuantumScape. Ever heard of it? It’s a battery startup that despite not yet reporting any revenue, is still projected to have a $44 billion market value. The company, backed by both Volkswagen and Bill Gates, now has a market value greater than Ford. 

Solid-state batteries have long been seen as a way of breaking through performance limitations associated with today’s electric vehicles. The promise of solid-state is to get rid of the liquid, and with it the fire risk. Moreover, “lithium-metal” cells being developed by QuantumScape, among others, combine the lithium component with the anode, further reducing bulk and potentially delivering more power at a lower cost.

Another advantage of solid-state batteries includes rapid charge and longer life expectancy. But is it really better? Tesla Chief Executive Elon Musk says solid-state isn’t among the many developments discussed in the company’s September “battery day.” Tesla’s skepticism may also be related to its own battery technology, which would likely make it harder than for others to adapt to solid-state electrolytes. Tesla uses cylindrical batteries formed from rolled cells, whereas its competitors typically favor so-called prismatic batteries, in which cells can be stacked. Because solid-state cells are more brittle than liquid ones, they will be much easier to stack than to roll.

For Tesla, the story remains different. But who’s to say QuantumScape isn’t or can’t be the new way? 
​While the current trajectory of our planet may seem unclear, there continues to be innovation. The population is increasing, and with that, so is everything else. But there are clear and evident efforts that are already being done to help combat the usual harms that come with rising populations. Hope is the one denominator that continues to be the same across the board, and I think that counts for something remarkable.

Sustainability Spotlight: Bellingham Public Schools Tackles Sustainability

Sustainability Spotlight: Bellingham Public Schools Tackles Sustainability

School districts have a compelling reason to reach for sustainability in their operations and curriculum. The energy their buildings and buses use, the food they serve, the water they consume, and the waste they generate puts schools at the fulcrum of what sustainability entails – reducing their environmental footprint and conserving resources. Additionally, their job…

Climate Change Impacts Seaports

Climate Change Impacts Seaports

Seaports are a vital part of the shipping industry, and they are already feeling the effects of climate change. The concern over climate change must be transformed into action. Climate planning should be budgeted for all ports and should include adaptation and mitigation. Climate change is here. Time is of the essence.

The win-win in agrivoltaics

The win-win in agrivoltaics

Image credit: Agrivoltaics: How Solar and Farmland can Fight Climate Change (solarreviews.com) Produce electricity and grow crops Did you know that there is a way to produce electricity and grow crops at the same time? It’s called agrivoltaics, and it can help farmers reduce their energy costs while still producing food. Check out this blog…

Sustainability Spotlight: Tony’s Coffee

Sustainability Spotlight: Tony’s Coffee

How did sustainability start for Tony’s? Our sustainability journey can be traced back to 2002, when we began sourcing Organic, Fair Trade, Shade Grown coffee. Since then, we moved to 100% green power, doubled our roasting efficiency, offset our roastery’s carbon footprint, and continue to support causes that we care about. Our commitment to sourcing…

Sustainability Spotlight: Aslan Brewing Company

Sustainability Spotlight: Aslan Brewing Company

Aslan Brewing Company, a member of Sustainable Connections, is based in Bellingham, WA and was founded in 2012. From the beginning, every decision the Aslan founders made was through the lens of sustainability. When Aslan opened its brewpub doors in May of 2014, team members focused on crafting world-class beer with local ingredients and low-impact…

Get started

How ready is your organization for climate change and sustainability? Get your questions answered. Peak can help you move to a strategy-driven roadmap.