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Right now, the FAA is taking public comments for SpaceX’s environmental review of the upcoming Starship Orbital launch. While I generally support space exploration and hope SpaceX succeeds, it’s important to consider the environmental impacts of space activities and find ways to reasonably minimize the environmental impacts.

The Use of Methane For Rockets Is Mostly Defensible

From an environmental perspective, a rocket should be powered by hydrogen. Burning hydrogen combines hydrogen with oxygen from the atmosphere, producing only water vapor in the exhaust. The water vapor harmlessly diffuses in the atmosphere, and doesn’t contribute to climate change or any other environmental harms. Hydrogen rockets are also a proven technology that took the United States to the moon, so it’s entirely possible to use hydrogen for space launches.

But hydrogen does have some serious drawbacks.

Being a small molecule, it’s very difficult and expensive to make sure a rocket doesn’t simply leak its fuel out. Every weld must be absolutely perfect. Every seam must be carefully sealed. All joints and fittings from tanks to engines must have perfect seals. All of that need for perfection means a lot more work, expense, and even danger.

The second problem with hydrogen is that it makes metal more brittle. This again drives up the cost of safely building a hydrogen rocket. Other problems include the low energy density compared to other fuels, temperature control, expense, and complexity of the systems needed to handle it properly. It’s also not easy to produce on Mars, so it wouldn’t be suitable for a Mars colony.

Methane (the purest form of “natural” gas) is the next best thing. It does produce carbon dioxide when it’s burned, but that’s basically all it produces (other than water vapor, like any combustion reaction). Unlike RP-1 or other rocket fuels, it does contribute some to greenhouse gases, but doesn’t spew out other pollutants.

Given the costs of hydrogen and the fact that methane is only a little worse, going with methane was the obvious choice, even if not perfect for the environment.

All The Methane Has To Come From Somewhere, Though

While assessing environmental impacts, the FAA didn’t factor one thing in: the source of the natural gas that would feed SpaceX’s Starbase.

The obvious thing they’ll need natural gas for is the rockets. For those unfamiliar, natural gas is mostly methane, and while it’s good enough for things like furnaces and power plants, the gas that’s normally in pipes just isn’t pure enough for use in rockets. So SpaceX needs a facility to take natural gas in, purify it, and then cool it down until it changes to a liquid state. Then, it’ll be ready to pump into a rocket’s tank and use for launches.

But they didn’t mention the source of all this natural gas in the report. Theoretically, they could truck the natural gas in using tanker trailers, but that would be expensive, cumbersome, and would take a LOT of trucks. The other, more reasonable, option would be to reactivate a natural gas pipeline that runs through the Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge. The pipeline, which was abandoned in 2016, is currently holding fiberoptic cables for a local educational institution.

So, SpaceX may still be able to use the pipeline, or it may have to build a new one.

The other thing that hasn’t been considered in the report is that the gas has to get put in the pipeline from somewhere, and the areas near Brownsville just don’t produce enough gas to feed the needs of  SpaceX at Starbase, so more gas will be needed from at least 80 miles away. That means more wells, more pipelines, and more environmental impact that isn’t currently being considered.

SpaceX Is Also Building a 250-Megawatt Gas Power Plant

Getting methane for rockets would probably be something the nearby wells could supply, with minimal gas needs from elsewhere in the state, and that would be reasonable. But, add the needed fuel for a 250-megawatt power plant that runs on natural gas, and you end up in the situation described above. There just isn’t enough local gas to power the rockets plus a big power plant.

According to TechCrunch and ESG Hound (both linked above), the power plant will be needed to power a desalination plant to provide for Starbase’s water needs, as well as to provide for the base’s other electrical needs.

Desalination makes sense, given the limited water supplies in the area and the abundance of salt water, but the equipment to do that isn’t picky about where its electrons come from. Whether it comes from natural gas, or comes from wind and solar, as long as the power keeps coming in, they’ll be able to produce the needed water.

So, Why Isn’t SpaceX Using Renewables?

Given that the company is already planning on piping in gas, and getting more gas is relatively cheap, it’s probably the cheapest solution overall.

But, really, south Texas has great solar resources.

Image provided by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Public Domain.

Sure, it’s not as red hot as it is in El Paso, but Brownsville still has better quality sunlight for solar power production than most of the country. There’s not much in the way of excuse to not build a big solar power plant with storage to supply the desalination plant’s needs, as well as other needs at Starbase. You probably couldn’t build a plant that big right next to Starbase, but you could find some vacant land in the region to supply enough power.

Brownsville only has 223 sunny days per year, which could make an issue, but there’s no reason to not go further away in Texas for power. El Paso and other parts of far west Texas, as close as Big Bend, have over 300 sunny days per year.

Getting the power from the vacant land to Starbase, whether from nearby or farther away, is an issue, but so is the issue of building pipelines. If you can build pipelines, then you can build power lines. Plus, power lines don’t leak and cause other environmental harms the way that gas lines do.

The cost of doing 250 megawatts of solar is probably higher than 250 megawatts of gas, but it doesn’t make sense to be trying to save the species with Tesla and then turn around and burn natural gas for SpaceX’s space colonization efforts.

 

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China’s first large-scale sodium-ion battery charges to 90% in 12 minutes

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May 17, 2024

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China's first large-scale sodium-ion battery charges to 90% in 12 minutes

China sodium-ion
Photo: China Southern Power Grid Energy Storage

China’s first major sodium-ion battery energy storage station is now online, according to state-owned utility China Southern Power Grid Energy Storage.

The Fulin Sodium-ion Battery Energy Storage Station entered operation on May 11 in Nanning, the capital of the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region in southern China. Its initial storage capacity is said to be 10 megawatt hours (MWh). Once fully developed, the Station is expected to reach a total capacity of 100 MWh.

The state utility says the 10 MWh sodium-ion battery energy storage station uses 210 Ah sodium-ion battery cells that charge to 90% in a mindblowing 12 minutes. The system comprises 22,000 cells.

Once the project reaches 100 MWh, it could release 73,000 MWh of clean energy each year. That’s enough to power 35,000 households and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 50,000 tonnes annually.

In an interview with China Central Television, Gao Like, a manager at the Guangxi branch of China Southern Power Grid, said that the energy conversion efficiency of its sodium-ion battery energy storage system exceeds 92%. It’s comparable to the efficiency of common lithium-ion battery storage systems, at 85-95%.

Chen Man, a senior engineer at China Southern Power Grid, said [via the South China Morning Post] that once sodium-ion battery energy storage enters the stage of large-scale development, its cost can be reduced by 20-30%. He continued:

This can be achieved through further improvements in the sodium-ion battery structure, manufacturing process, material utilization, and cycle life, thus lowering the energy storage cost per kilowatt-hour of electricity.

Large-scale sodium-ion batteries are gaining momentum due to their lower cost and abundance of raw materials compared to lithium-ion batteries. The challenges with sodium-ion batteries have been lower energy density and shorter lifespans that can limit efficiency and long-term performance in large-scale applications.

Read more: A new sodium-ion battery breakthrough means they may one day power EVs

To limit power outages and make your home more resilient, consider going solar with a battery storage system. In order to find a trusted, reliable solar installer near you that offers competitive pricing, check out EnergySage, a free service that makes it easy for you to go solar. They have hundreds of pre-vetted solar installers competing for your business, ensuring you get high quality solutions and save 20-30% compared to going it alone. Plus, it’s free to use and you won’t get sales calls until you select an installer and you share your phone number with them.

Your personalized solar quotes are easy to compare online and you’ll get access to unbiased Energy Advisers to help you every step of the way. Get started here. – ad*

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You can now lease a Rivian R1T for cheaper than the Nissan Titan, starting at $559/month

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May 17, 2024

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You can now lease a Rivian R1T for cheaper than the Nissan Titan, starting at 9/month

Rivian-R1T-lease-cheaper

If you’ve been eyeing a new Rivian R1T, now may be the time to start shopping. Rivian is offering R1T lease rates as low as $559 per month, which is even cheaper than the Nissan Titan.

After introducing leasing for the R1T last November, Rivian is already offering some massive savings opportunities.

Rivian is offering R1T lease configurations for as low as $559 per month. That’s for a new 2024 Rivian R1T Standard Adventure Package and includes $7,500 in lease cash.

The offer is for a 36-month lease with 30,000 total miles with $7,454 due at signing. That amounts to $766 per month. Total vehicle pricing totals $71,700, including Dual Motor AWD, 21″ Wheels, LA Silver Paint, Black Mountain interior, and a $1,800 destination fee.

Although the Nissan Titan’s MSRP is about $24,000 cheaper, the Rivian R1T is still the better lease deal.

Nissan has the 2024 Titan listed at $659 for 36 months. That’s with $5,949 due at signing, according to online research firm CarsDirect. The offer is based on an MSRP of $52,380 for the SV 4×2 Crew Cab model and 10,000 miles a year, which amounts to $824 a month.

Rivian-R1T-lease-cheaper
Rivian R1T (left) and R1S (right) (Source: Rivian)

Rivian R1T is not the only EV lease getting cheaper

The difference maker is the incentives. We’ve seen it with other models like the Hyundai IONIQ6/5 and Kona Electric.

Kia is also offering up to $12,000 off 2024 EV6 and EV9 models with massive stackable incentives.

GM cut prices on its Blazer EV, while deliveries of the new Equinox EV are now underway. The Equinox EV (2LT) currently starts at $43,295, but the $34,995 (1LT) version will be available later this year. With the $7,500 credit, the Equinox EV can be bought for as little as $35,795.

Rival Ford also slashed prices on the Mach-E by 17% earlier this year, driving triple-digit volume growth. Meanwhile, Ford has introduced several incentives for the F-150 Lightning as it looks to keep its title of top-selling EV pickup in the US.

With up to 410 miles range, an 83.9″ long extendable tailgate, up to 11,000 lbs towing, and a 0 to 60 mph sprint in 3 seconds, the R1T is built to upgrade your next adventure.

Rivian-R1T-lease-cheaper
Rivian R1T (left) and R1S (right) (Source: Rivian)

Rivian added R1S leasing options in January. The Rivian R1S can be leased for as little as $639 per month. That’s also for 36 months (30,000 miles total), with $8,534 due at signing.

Rivian’s R1S electric SUV was the seventh best-selling EV in the US last year, topping the Ford F-150 Lightning and Tesla Model X, as demand for large electric SUVs continues to grow.

If you’re ready to see what Rivian has to offer at some of the lowest prices so far, we can help you get started. You can use our links below to view deals on the Rivian R1S and R1T in your area.

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Save up to $400 on Jackery’s new Explorer 1000 v2 power station starting from $679, Greenworks tools 50% off, and more deals

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May 17, 2024

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Save up to 0 on Jackery's new Explorer 1000 v2 power station starting from 9, Greenworks tools 50% off, and more deals

Today’s Green Deals are ones of maximum savings on old and new devices alike, headlined by the launch of the pre-order discount on Jackery’s new Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station for $679. It is joined by an early Memorial Day sale that is taking up to 50% off Greenworks tools, including chainsaws, mowers, blowers, trimmers, pressure washers, and more – starting from $97. There’s also a double one-day sale on the NIU KQi3 Pro Electric Kick Scooter for $600 and the GoTrax FLEX VOYAGER Electric Scooter at $370. Plus, all the other hangover Green Deals that are still alive and well.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course, Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals. Also, check out the new Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories.

Jackery’s new Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station now available for pre-order at $679

Jackery has launched an early bird pre-order deal on its new Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station for $679 shipped, after using the on-page code E1000V2 at checkout for $120 off. This is the very first opportunity to save on this newly upgraded power station before it begins shipping out next month, giving you until May 31 to lock down your very own ahead of summer. Its predecessor, the standard Explorer 1000, has regularly been discounted between $640 and $650 during most major sales we’ve seen since the new year began, meaning for the same general price you’ll be able to get this updated model instead of settling for its older version.

The new Explorer 1000 v2 arrives upgraded from its standard NMC lithium battery to a LiFePO4 battery for greater efficiency and better operations at lower levels of charge. It’s been given a slight bump up from a 1,002Wh capacity to a 1,070Wh of capacity, with its power output being raised as well from 1,000W to 1,500W. Charging times are also more significantly improved, with what used to take 7.5 hours through a 180W max solar input now only taking 3 hours with a 600W solar input or 1.6 hours via a wall outlet (as well as 12-hour charging through a car port). It features the next generation of Chargeshield 2.0 that provides a whopping 62 forms of all-round protection, so don’t worry about accidental surges from storms, sudden outages, etc. It also has seven output ports for your charging needs: three ACs, two USB-Cs, one USB-A, and one car port.

And if you were just thinking to yourself, “I wish there was a way to grab this model with a solar panel,” you’re in luck – cause Jackery also is giving you the first chance to save on the Explorer 1000 v2 Solar Generator bundle for $899 shipped, down from $1,299, after using the on-page code SG1000V2 at checkout for $400 off. The regular Explorer 1000’s bundle gives you two 100W solar panels (whereas the new Explorer 1000 v2 bundle simplifies it into one 200W panel) and is currently marked down to $1,099, meaning this pre-order deal gives you far more for even less – but keep in mind it also only lasts until May 31, so don’t dawdle too long on making a decision.

As part of its early Memorial Day sales, Amazon is taking up to 50% off a large collection of Greenworks mowers, blowers, trimmers, pressure washers, chainsaws, pole saws, bundles, and more. A standout amongst the bunch is the 24V 6-inch Cordless Electric Mini Chainsaw for $99.97 shipped. Regularly fetching $160, this tool has only seen three discounts since the start of the new year, with the first two keeping at $136, while last month we saw it fall to the $100 low. Today’s deal is a slightly bigger 38% markdown off the going rate that lands it at a new all-time low with only a few cents of difference. We’ve also curated a list of our other top picks in this sale below.

This 6-inch mini chainsaw is an ideal addition for travelers and homeowners alike, equipped with a brushless motor and 2.0Ah battery that is able to make up to 100 cuts on a single charge and fully recharges in up to an hour. Plus, as is common with the brand, the battery can be interchanged with over 125 other devices and tools within the Greenworks ecosystem for more convenient power needs. Its compact design allows it to better fit in tight spaces than any standard chainsaw and it lessens arm fatigue at just 3 pounds. And with its multiple, built-in safety features, like the anti-splash baffle or the safety lock, you’re ensured a much more controlled experience whether it’s for garden or tree pruning, home DIY projects, cutting up firewood, or more.

Other notable Greenworks Memorial Day discounts:

Notable Greenworks Memorial Day bundle discounts:

NIU KQi3 Pro Foldable Electric Kick Scooter hits $600 for today only

As part of its Deals of the Day, Best Buy is offering the NIU KQi3 Pro Foldable Electric Kick Scooter for $599.99 shipped. Usually fetching $799, this model has seen very few discounts since the new year began, with its successor, the KQi3 Max often receiving discounts over it. We’ve seen it go for as low as $599 in the past, meaning today’s deal gives you the second-lowest price we have tracked at just $1 above the all-time low from Black Friday sales. Regardless, it’s still a great opportunity to snag this commuting option at its lowest prices – but don’t forget, the deal only lasts until the end of the day.

The NIU KQi3 Pro offers an affordable, longer-than-normal-commuting solution of 31 miles on a single charge at 20 MPH top speeds, matching or coming near many popular e-bike models that go for more. It sports a 350W rear drive motor and a 48V battery that can handle 20% inclines together, as well as wider 21-inch handlebars and 9.5-inch rubber pneumatic tires. Its triple braking system gives you superior stopping power, with braking lights on its backside and a bright Halo headlight for evening or night time cruises, ensuring a safer journey. You’ll also get complete smart controls through the NIU app, letting you monitor or adjust settings, but more importantly it allows for the scooter to be locked for added security. You can also find the upgraded KQi3 Max model on sale as well for $750, down from $1,000.

As a cheaper option for those with a shorter travel distance or perhaps for your teens to start off with, Best Buy is also offering a one-day discount on the GoTrax FLEX VOYAGER Electric Scooter for $370, down from $600. You’re looking at a much more simplified sit-down option here, with a 15.5 MPH top speed for up to 19 miles on a single charge with its 350W motor and 36V battery. Its cushioned seat, working alongside the 14-inch shock-absorbing pneumatic tires and its rear suspension, will ensure a much smoother ride as opposed to other basic standing models. You’ll also get an integrated storage basket for errand running – or perhaps for your kids to ride to school or to a friend’s house.

Spring e-bike deals!

Hover-1 multi-color Instinct Electric Bike parked with kickstand with NYC skyline in background within post for Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station

Other new Green Deals landing this week

The savings this week are also continuing to a collection of other markdowns. To the same tune as the offers above, these all help you take a more energy-conscious approach to your routine. Winter means you can lock in even better off-season price cuts on electric tools for the lawn while saving on EVs and tons of other gear.

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