Future-Proofing Fuel Cells: Critical Raw Material Governance in Sustainable Energy

The demand for critical raw materials (CRMs) for energy generation,conversion,and storage technologies is increasing,and this book provides a novel perspective on the discussion about material dependencies of energy technologies. It examines CRMs use in fuel cells and discusses governance strategies for early-stage fuel cell development to predict and avoid potential issues.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 135 pages
Publication date: 13 July 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

The world is rapidly moving towards a transition towards renewable energy sources, which has led to a significant increase in the demand for critical raw materials (CRMs) that are essential for energy generation, conversion, and storage technologies. These materials are not only in limited supply but also highly volatile in price, making them a significant burden to the environment, human health, and socio-political systems. In order to address these challenges, this book takes an interdisciplinary approach to examine the material dependencies of energy technologies. It specifically focuses on the use of CRMs in fuel cells, a promising energy conversion technology. By analyzing the governance strategies employed in the early stages of fuel cell development, the book aims to predict and avoid potential issues that may arise.

This book will be an invaluable resource for researchers in energy studies, engineering, sociology, and political science, as well as anyone with a general interest in this field who is seeking a comprehensive overview. The interdisciplinary nature of the approach provides a unique perspective on the complex relationship between energy technologies and their material dependencies, which is crucial for understanding the challenges and opportunities associated with the transition to a sustainable energy future.

The demand for critical raw materials (CRMs) for energy generation, conversion, and storage technologies is on the rise as the world accelerates towards a renewable energy transition. These materials, which are essential for powering clean and sustainable energy systems, face several challenges. Firstly, they are in limited supply, making them expensive and difficult to access. Secondly, the prices of CRMs are highly volatile, making it difficult for energy companies to plan and budget for their use. Additionally, the extraction and processing of CRMs can have negative environmental impacts, such as pollution and habitat destruction.

One of the most promising technologies for generating renewable energy is fuel cells. Fuel cells convert hydrogen or other fuels into electricity through an electrochemical reaction, producing only water and heat as byproducts. However, the development of fuel cells requires the use of several critical raw materials, including platinum, nickel, and carbon. These materials are not only expensive but also in limited supply, making it difficult for fuel cell manufacturers to scale up their production.

To address these challenges, researchers and policymakers are exploring various strategies for managing the material dependencies of energy technologies. One approach is to promote the reuse and recycling of CRMs, which can reduce the demand for new extraction and processing operations. Another approach is to develop alternative materials that can replace CRMs in energy technologies, such as biodegradable plastics or metals that can be extracted from renewable sources.

Governance strategies are also important in managing the material dependencies of energy technologies. Governments can implement regulations and incentives to promote the use of sustainable and renewable materials, such as tax breaks for companies that use recycled materials or subsidies for research and development of alternative materials. Additionally, governments can work with industry and other stakeholders to develop standards and protocols for the use of CRMs in energy technologies, which can ensure that they are used responsibly and sustainably.

In conclusion, the demand for critical raw materials for energy generation, conversion, and storage technologies is on the rise. While these materials are essential for powering clean and sustainable energy systems, they also face several challenges. By taking an interdisciplinary approach and exploring various strategies for managing the material dependencies of energy technologies, we can ensure that we continue to progress towards a more sustainable and resilient energy future.

Weight: 208g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030768089
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021