Sustainability has become a global agenda. Almost every country, irrespective of its scale of contribution, has pledged to make efforts towards promoting sustainability through everything possible. The use of renewable energy is one such crucial area, the mediums for which include solar energy, wind turbines, etc.
Speaking of solar systems and wind turbines, for instance, these units comprise various components and parts, the contribution of which matters to global sustainability endeavors. Copper and aluminium have been conventionally popular materials in this regard. So, let’s delve into the role of copper and aluminium towards sustainable energy.
Let’s Begin with Aluminium!
As stated above, aluminium is a traditional choice when it comes to renewable energy applications. The reasons for it include aluminium’s light weight, strength, and excellent corrosion resistance. Additionally, the metal’s durability and reliability make it a trustworthy choice for wind turbines and solar panels. As for the latter, aluminium is the most widely used mineral material in solar photovoltaic (PV) applications. Industry reports suggest aluminium constitutes over 80 percent of the mineral material demand for solar PV parts and components.
- Solar Systems
Aluminium extrusions prove a beneficial choice for solar panel frames, given their versatility. The metal can enhance solar cells on its own. Furthermore, aluminium possesses excellent reflective properties, due to which companies use embedded aluminium studs to foster a noteworthy increase in solar panel efficiency.
- Low CO2 Footprint
What makes aluminium even more special and significant in the world’s green objectives is that it can be produced with a low CO2 footprint. Of course, aluminium production requires an enormous amount of energy. However, if you use the energy derived from renewable sources, you can reduce the dependability on resources from non-renewable energy sources. Aluminium allows it. Companies can use energy from solar, water, and wind energy to produce aluminium and contribute to global sustainability goals.
- Low-Carbon Technologies
In addition to the above, aluminium forms a crucial part of various low-carbon technologies like hydroelectricity, wind, and energy storage. It is used extensively across onshore and off-shore wind projects like turbines and tower platform components.
- Is Aluminium Recyclable?
Now, what about recyclability? Aluminium scores high on this front as well. You can recycle it infinitely without losing its quality. Aluminium recycling can help save about 100 million tons of CO2 annually. It is because aluminium recycling requires only five to six percent of the energy you need to manufacture the metal for raw materials. Thus, when it comes to the circular economy, aluminium emerges as a valuable metal due to its numerous application possibilities and phenomenal endurance.
Therefore, from low manufacturing resource requirements to extensive recyclability, aluminium forms an excellent alternative for the sustainable energy sector.
But what about copper, which is considered an equally useful option? Does aluminium have a peer here? Let’s explore some aspects of copper concerning sustainable energy.
Copper’s Role in Sustainable Energy
Here’s how copper can work wonders for the renewable energy realm.
- Renewable Energy Applications
Let’s begin with copper’s superlative electrical conductivity that makes it a go-to choice for renewable energy applications. Copper offers lower electrical resistance than aluminium. Thus, it helps reduce energy losses during transmission. It proves useful in long-distance electricity transmission that massive renewable energy projects generate.
- Wind Turbines
Copper is also used extensively in wind turbines. The metal enables the conversion of kinetic energy from wind to electrical energy. Its high conductivity minimizes energy losses and optimizes wind turbine efficiency during the power generation process.
Additionally, copper’s high corrosion-resistance properties and remarkable durability help protect against external conditions like turbulent weather. These properties make wind turbines more durable, thus contributing to a more dependable and environment-friendly energy supply.
- Solar Systems
Speaking of solar systems, copper is widely used in the wiring and busbars of PV modules. It helps facilitate seamless electricity flow between solar cells and ensures an efficient power generation output. Besides, copper’s appreciable thermal conductivity enables efficient dissipation of the heat generated during solar cell operations. That helps maintain the performance levels and contributes to the longevity of PV systems.
- Energy Storage
Copper excels in energy storage as well by specifically contributing to the electrodes and conductive components. The metal’s significant electrical conductivity and electrochemical stability facilitate energy storage and discharge efficiency.
- Recyclability
When it comes to recyclability, copper is as recyclable as aluminium. You can recycle copper repeatedly without letting its performance and quality be affected. Thus, primary copper and recycled copper wouldn’t have any difference. Companies can use both interchangeably and yet achieve the desired levels of efficiency.
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