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

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In 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 Potential

00:00 Global Governance Breakdown

00:36 Welcome to Wicked Problems

00:39 Introducing the Guests: Dave Jones and Constanza Rva

01:05 The Rise of Solar and Battery Technology

01:33 24/7 Solar Power: A Game Changer

01:54 Advancements in Battery Technology

02:51 Economic Competitiveness of Solar and Battery

04:38 Challenges and Innovations in Battery Production

08:17 Global Adoption and Market Dynamics

15:20 Grid vs. Battery: The Trade-Offs

21:05 Solar and Battery in Different Climates

24:27 Implications for Policy and Future Outlook

26:09 Evolution of Battery Storage

27:29 Africa's Solar Boom

27:59 Chinese Solar Exports to Africa

28:52 Utility Scale Solar in Africa

37:50 Challenges and Opportunities in Mexico's Solar Sector

47:26 Global Solar Trends and Future Outlook

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