Metals in Renewable Energy: A Key Component of Green Technology

solar and wind renewable energy materials

March 1, 2024

Metals can be found all around us and are a key component in renewable energy due to their efficiency, sustainability, and durability. They are used in green, renewable energy technology in many different capacities to reduce the amount of pollution and waste created by human activity. For example, copper and silver are often used in solar energy, while metals like steel are essential for wind turbine construction. Green technology plays a crucial role in optimizing energy use and minimizing the carbon footprint left by fabrication and manufacturing. It is used as an alternative to fossil fuels, which are finite and harmful to the environment. It's used to combat environmental issues, like climate change and deforestation while promoting renewable resources and reducing the negative human impact on the environment. The ultimate goal of green technology is to move towards net-zero emissions. That means that the emissions released through human activities, such as manufacturing, are counterbalanced by the removal of carbon from our atmosphere.

The Role of Metals in Renewable Energy Technologies

Metals play an important role in the development and deployment of renewable energy technologies. They are essential components highly valued for their durability, efficiency, and performance. Metals help with the development of sustainable infrastructure, including electrical vehicle charging stations and renewable energy grids.

Copper and Aluminum

Copper and aluminum can be found in electrical grids, power lines, wiring, and electrical connectors due to their efficient energy transmission and durability. Copper is also found in batteries, electric motors, and the wiring of electric vehicles (EVs). Aluminum, copper, and silver are used in solar panels, in which aluminum is used for mounting structures and copper for the wiring and connections. Copper is also found in batteries, electric motors, and the wiring of electric vehicles.

Steel

Metals can be found in wind energy technology, in which steel is used as a structural component for wind turbine blades and towers. Steel is also used in hydropower for turbines, dams, and other infrastructure components.

Other Common Metals and Their Application

Silicone, which is technically a metalloid, is used in solar panels. It is the most common semiconductor material used in solar cells to convert sunlight into electricity.
Indium and gallium are used for energy-efficient lighting.
Metals are also widely used in energy storage and battery production. Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in electric vehicles and energy storage systems.

Sustainability and Recycling of Metals

In a world burdened by waste, sustainable technology, and recycling metals is essential for long-term green energy technologies. Recycling metals helps conserve natural resources, uses significantly less energy, and helps move society into a more sustainable future. Recycling continues the use of already extracted metals; this reduces the negative impact extraction has on the environment, climate, and people.

Mining for new materials, including fossil fuels, has significant negative environmental impacts, such as greenhouse gas emissions, pollution, and environmental destruction. The process of mining and refining metals also contributes heavily to water and air pollution and global warming. In addition to the environmental impact of mining for new materials, there is concern over the deletion of finite resources, including fossil fuels, which cannot be renewed. Recycling existing metals decreases the need to mine for more and some, like aluminum and steel, can be recycled without a loss of quality, making them incredibly valuable and versatile.