In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, discovering the next big thing in eco-friendly technology is more critical than ever. Insights from a Chief Sustainability Officer and a CEO reveal the latest game-changing innovations in this field. From Viridi BESS revolutionizing energy storage to the HomeBiogas system, this article presents six expert perspectives. Get ready to explore the forefront of sustainable tech with insights that could redefine our approach to environmental responsibility.
- Viridi BESS Revolutionizes Energy Storage
- BioNTech’s Mobile Vaccine Factory
- Shopify’s Carbon-Neutral Shipping Initiative
- Smart Home Energy Management Systems
- AWS Lambda Reduces Energy Consumption
- HomeBiogas System for Renewable Energy
Viridi BESS Revolutionizes Energy Storage
Battery energy storage is the Rosetta stone of the energy transition. Battery energy storage systems (BESS) allow us to turn intermittent wind and solar energy into a resource that can be dispatched when needed. Mobile BESS can be deployed where grids are fragile or nonexistent, with far fewer environmental impacts than fossil-fuel generators. And storage allows distributed energy resources (DERs) to supplement the grid at far lower cost than new construction and in the face of massive increases in energy demand. Because of this, projections of the battery storage needed for 2030 are in multiples of terawatts.
Two challenges, however, have slowed BESS deployment. First, the low probability/high-risk propensity of the most energy-dense batteries to thermal runaway and its resulting fires. And second, the need for advanced connectivity and AI to turn batteries from “dumb” energy receptacles to “smart” participants in the new energy system, able to communicate seamlessly among loads, generation, utilities, and the grid. So, the ‘game-changing’ sustainable tech I would recommend is the Viridi line of BESS products. Viridi attacked both BESS challenges head-on.
First, its battery storage team developed a BESS architecture that virtually eliminates the risk of fires by stopping any battery failures at the cell level. This architecture has allowed Viridi BESS to be installed in occupied spaces, in densely populated areas, and in sensitive environmental settings. Second, Viridi’s high-tech communications and AI division developed and continuously improve on their Vista(R) communications system.
Originally developed for a major utility, the Vista(R) system allows BESS diagnostics and control along with seamless communications throughout the energy ecosystem. Viridi provides these solutions in both stationary and mobile configurations, allowing for the flexibility we will need in the energy transition.
Evan van Hook
Chief Sustainability Officer, Viridi
BioNTech’s Mobile Vaccine Factory
One sustainable tech product I find revolutionary is the mobile vaccine factory-in-a-box developed by BioNTech. As a CEO, I’ve always been focused on finding solutions that are both innovative and practical, and this one is game-changing. In my experience running a company that supports businesses with 24/7 real-time help, I know how important it is to have efficient, adaptable systems. This factory can produce up to 50 million doses of vaccines a year, addressing critical shortages, especially in regions like Africa where access to life-saving vaccines is limited.
What makes it truly revolutionary is its flexibility and portability. These modular units are built from shipping containers, allowing them to be moved by air, sea, or land to any location that needs them. They can manufacture vaccines for diseases beyond COVID-19, like malaria and tuberculosis. In the IT world, we’re always looking for scalable solutions, and this approach echoes that same strategy but on a life-saving scale. Imagine the impact this will have in underserved regions where traditional infrastructure may be lacking, but the need is great.
Another reason I find this product so impactful is the company’s commitment to covering development and shipping costs, making this tech accessible for those who need it most. From my experience, offering help that’s timely and doesn’t add financial strain is key, whether it’s supporting businesses with IT services or helping people access vaccines. This product embodies the kind of innovation that makes a real difference in people’s lives.
Elmo Taddeo
CEO, Parachute
Shopify’s Carbon-Neutral Shipping Initiative
A standout game-changer in sustainable tech is Shopify’s new, carbon-neutral e-commerce shipping initiative. This service is truly revolutionary for multiple reasons. First, it addresses the carbon-footprint issue inherent in online retail. For my business, Or & Zon, it has meant that all of our product shipments now contribute to carbon-offset projects, effectively neutralizing our environmental impact.
Additionally, Shopify’s accessible interface for both retailers and consumers fosters transparency about environmental efforts, bringing sustainability to the forefront of customer consciousness. This kind of actionable innovation not only embraces responsibility for our planet but also reshapes consumers’ expectations for the e-commerce industry as a whole.
Guillaume Drew
Founder & CEO, Or & Zon
Smart Home Energy Management Systems
I believe one of the most revolutionary sustainable tech products available is smart home energy management systems. These systems integrate various energy-saving technologies into a single platform, allowing homeowners to monitor and optimize their energy consumption effectively.
They have the ability to provide real-time insights into energy usage. With features like smart thermostats, energy monitors, and automated lighting controls, these systems empower homeowners to make informed decisions about their energy consumption. For example, a smart thermostat can learn a household’s habits and automatically adjust the temperature for maximum efficiency, leading to significant savings on energy bills while reducing carbon footprints.
Many of these systems can integrate with renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, further enhancing sustainability. Homeowners can track their energy production and consumption, allowing them to use solar energy more efficiently and potentially sell excess energy back to the grid.
The convenience of remote access through mobile apps means homeowners can adjust settings from anywhere, ensuring their homes are energy-efficient even when they’re not on-site. This combination of convenience, efficiency, and sustainability positions smart home energy management systems as a revolutionary solution in the electrical industry.
As we continue to advocate for sustainable practices, recommending and installing these technologies not only helps our clients save money but also contributes to a healthier planet. Embracing such innovative solutions is key to driving our industry toward a more sustainable future.
Tim Hodnicki
President, Electrical Experts
AWS Lambda Reduces Energy Consumption
One tech product we find revolutionary in sustainability is AWS Lambda, a cloud-based, serverless computing service. It’s a game-changer because it eliminates the need for always-on servers. You only pay for what you use, reducing both costs and energy consumption. This is critical for businesses aiming to lower their carbon footprint.
AWS is also investing in renewable energy for its data centers, which adds to the sustainability benefits. From a technical side, serverless allows developers to focus on writing code without worrying about managing infrastructure. We’ve seen faster project cycles and reduced operational costs after adopting it.
The combination of lower energy use, flexibility, and cost savings is what makes AWS Lambda stand out in today’s tech landscape.
Vikrant Bhalodia
Head of Marketing & People Ops, WeblineIndia
HomeBiogas System for Renewable Energy
One game-changing sustainable tech product I’m really excited about is the HomeBiogas System. You just toss your food scraps into a unit in your backyard, and in return, get clean cooking gas and natural fertilizer. It’s such a simple idea but makes a huge impact. This system lets you manage waste, cut down on emissions, and produce renewable energy at home. It’s a small step with a big payoff, and that’s what makes it so revolutionary.
Chris Burdick
Co-Founder, FairKiwi
