A small tailoring cooperative in southern India uses refurbished EV batteries to overcome power cuts, showcasing a model for reducing clean energy waste.
Sibi Arasu reports for The Associated Press.
In short:
- Refurbished EV batteries provide stable electricity for tailors in rural India, allowing them to increase income and productivity.
- India faces a growing challenge of waste from solar panels, batteries and wind turbines, with experts urging a comprehensive recycling strategy.
- Companies like Nunam are developing circular solutions, aiming to reuse critical minerals and scale sustainable practices.
Key quote:
“The way EVs use these batteries is like asking it to run. Using it to power small machines and streetlights is like asking it to walk.”
— Prithvi Raj Narendra, engineer at Nunam
Why this matters:
As clean energy infrastructure expands, India must balance growth with sustainability by addressing waste. Recycling and repurposing components can reduce environmental harm, create jobs and lessen dependency on imported minerals, supporting a truly circular economy.
